Canadian Cataloguing in Publication Data Main entry under title: Master plan for Botanical Beach Provincial Park.

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "Canadian Cataloguing in Publication Data Main entry under title: Master plan for Botanical Beach Provincial Park."

Transcription

1

2 Canadian Cataloguing in Publication Data Main entry under title: Master plan for Botanical Beach Provincial Park. Cover title. Includes bibliographical references. ISBN Botanical Beach Provincial Park (B.C.) 2. Parks - British Columbia - Management. 3. Parks - British Columbia - Planning. I. BC Parks. FC3815.B67M '3' C F1089.M67M

3 Botanical Beach Provincial Park Master Plan

4

5 TABLE OF CONTENTS THE MASTER PLAN Plan Highlights 1 Introduction 2 Plan Purpose Key Issues Background Summary 4 Role of the Park 7 Regional and Provincial Context Conservation Role Recreation Role 8 Park Zoning 10 Intensive Recreation Zone Natural Environment Zone Special Feature Zone Natural and Cultural Resource Management 12 Introduction Land Water 15 Forest and Vegetation 16 Fish 17 Wildlife 18 Cultural Resources 19 Recreation Features and Visual Resources 20 Scientific Research 22 Visitor Services 24 General Concept Access Strategy Information Strategy 25 Information and Education Program 26 General Program Direction Large Audience Program Port Renfrew Visitor Centre 29 Marketing and Promotion 30 Management Services 31 Visitor Opportunities 32 i

6 Plan Implementation 36 Natural and Cultural Resource Management Visitor Services 38 Plan Bibliography 40 List of Figures Figure 1. Park Location 5 Figure 2. Regional Setting 9 Figure 3. Park Zoning 11 Figure 4. Proposed Park Additions 13 List of Plates Plate #1. View West of Botanical Beach 6 Plate #2. Tidepool Formations 21 Plate #3. Botany Bay Plate #4. Intertidal Marine Life 23 Plate #5. Nature Appreciation Opportunities 30 BACKGROUND REPORT 41 Introduction 42 Natural and Cultural Resources 46 Natural Resources Climate Physiography Geology Soils 48 Vegetation 49 Wildlife 50 Outdoor Recreation Features and Visual Resources 51 Cultural Resources 52 Resource Analysis 56 Recreation Opportunities 59 Tenures, Occupancy Rights, and Jurisdictions 60 Market Analysis 62 Existing Use Promotion and Information Park Product Master Plan Issues 64 ii

7 Bibliography 66 List of Maps Figure 1. Study Area Location 43 Figure 2. Regional Setting 45 Figure 3. Shoreline Geology 47 Figure 4. Outdoor Recreation Features 53 Figure 5. Place Names, Access and Cultural Values 57 Figure 6. Park Boundary, Tenures, and Adjacent Lands 61 List of Plates Plate #1. Tidepools 54 Plate #2. Rock Platforms and Pocket Beaches Plate #3. Rock Cliffs 55 Plate #4. Tidepool Marine Life APPENDIX I Development Concept Plan 69 APPENDIX II Park Zone Descriptions 79 APPENDIX III Public Consultation Process, Management Actions Review and Summary of Public Comments 85 iii

8 Acknowledgements Roger Norrish, Master Planning Coordinator, Conservation Services, BC Parks, Victoria wrote the Botanical Beach Park Master Plan and Background Report. BC Parks Malahat District, South Coast Regional Office and Victoria Headquarters staff provided capable assistance. In particular, Dave Chater, Malahat District Manager; Bill Shaw, South Malahat Zone Manager, Malahat District; Don McLaren, Goldstream Area Supervisor, Malahat District; Rik Simmons, Resource Officer, South Coast Region; Kerry Joy, Forest and Vegetation Specialist, BC Parks, Victoria; Cathy Mackin, former Malahat District Visitor Services Coordinator; and Robin Soule, former Malahat District Manager are commended for their significant contributions to the preparation of the master plan. In addition, the extra effort of Brian Dyck, Senior Research Officer and Kim Steeves, Data Entry Clerk, Victoria Headquarters in preparing the questionnaire and collating the questionnaire results is greatly appreciated. BC Parks would also like to give special recognition to all those members of the public and interest groups who gave of their time to participate through the open houses, meetings and written comments. iv

9 Plan Highlights About 76% of the park is zoned Natural Environment. A significant portion of the park s foreshore, tidepools and remnant old-growth forest is zoned as Special Feature. The park boundary will be expanded to include old highway right-of-ways. Adjacent private lands will be considered for addition to the park. conditions. Damaged forest and vegetation in the park will be restored to natural Hunting and harvesting of terrestrial and marine wildlife will be prohibited in the park. The collection of specimens for scientific studies will require park use permits. Existing Federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans fishing closures will be maintained. A facility-development program will be implemented to provide access and recreation opportunities and minimize resource damage. An information and education program will inform and educate the public about park resources, public-stewardship obligations, and allow BC Parks to effectively manage increased use pressures. A BC Parks initiative will foster support from the local community and other levels of government in the management of the park. BC Parks will encourage compatible scientific research activities which educate the public and further knowledge about park resources. 1

10 Introduction Plan Purpose Botanical Beach Provincial Park is a unique shoreline area on the San Juan Peninsula. People are drawn to the park to witness the spectacular display of marine life present in the tidepools. The park also supplies a variety of beach and nature appreciation activities in a small, scenic part of the rugged Pacific Coast of Vancouver Island. The purpose of this master plan is to ensure the park is planned and managed in a careful, thoughtful manner. The aim of BC Parks is to protect and preserve the unique tidepools and shoreline environment of Botanical Beach Park while providing opportunities for public appreciation and enjoyment. Other important considerations are rehabilitation of the park s upland and defining the park s relationship to the local community and to Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Key Issues The master plan addresses several management and planning issues. Park Role The role Botanical Beach Park plays in the Victoria to Port Renfrew corridor and the park s relationship with local communities, adjacent landowners and Pacific Rim National Park Reserve are described in the plan. Natural and Cultural Resource Protection The master plan explains the management objectives and actions needed to protect the park s natural and cultural resources. 2

11 Vegetation Management The master plan establishes a strategy for completing an inventory of vegetation resources, evaluating the inventory data, and preparing a vegetation management plan which emphasizes a return to coastal western hemlock vegetation. Park Facility Development Compatible recreation opportunities and facilities which adequately protect the park s fragile natural resources but provide reasonable public access are defined in the master plan. Public Education and Information A program to continue the vital role of research while also educating the public to respect and protect the marine resources of the park is outlined in the plan. Park Boundary Areas where boundary changes should be considered in relation to park resource management and recreation needs are presented in the master plan. 3

12 Background Summary Scientists recognized the special quality of Botanical Beach s marine resources in the first decade of this century when the University of Minnesota established a marine research station. Over the years scientists, conservationists and the general public fought to ensure protection of this special area. For example, in 1984 the Nature Trust of British Columbia acquired land at Botanical Beach which formed the nucleus for further conservation activities. These efforts were rewarded when the provincial government established Botanical Beach as a Class A, Category 2, Provincial Park by Order-In-Council 147, approved February 9, The park is located 108 kilometres northwest of Victoria and 3.5 kilometres south of Port Renfrew, at the west end of the San Juan Peninsula (Figure 1). Its 351 hectares are comprised of 231 hectares of upland and 120 hectares of foreshore. People from Sooke and Victoria reach the park by driving paved Highway 14 to Port Renfrew, then following a rough, 3.5 kilometre four wheel drive road south from Port Renfrew. Botanical Beach Park is renowned for a variety of natural and cultural resource features. Nationally significant tidepools, rich with intertidal marine life, are its prime attraction to the public. Scenic rock headlands and rock exposures add a vibrant wildness to the park, particularly when strong Pacific winds lash the shore during frequent winter storms. Extensive pebble and sand beaches exist along the central and eastern part of the park s shoreline, while secluded pocket beaches are found in the more rugged western shores. Small, remnant stands of old-growth coastal western hemlock clothe the upland near the tidepools and lower west side of the park. Recorded archaeological sites within the park boundaries attest to prehistoric use of the area. Because the park was the first marine station in the Pacific Northwest and a World War II defence site, a special cultural flavour is added to the park. Finally, the park contains excellent upland and shoreline viewing points. 4

13

14 The Park offers a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. The scenic sand and pebble beaches along the park s shoreline are ideal for picnics and other beach activities. Visitors can also embark on day hikes to isolated pocket beaches and summits along the west coast of the park. Hiking, however, is difficult because of the lack of upland trails. Finally, the park s outstanding marine environment affords the public exceptional opportunities for the study and appreciation of intertidal life. Day visits by interested individuals, school groups and natural history groups form the primary use of the park. BC Parks estimated use at 2,000-3,000 party days in Statistics gathered by BC Parks from June to September, 1991 indicate about 6500 party days for the eight week recording period. Thus, the numbers of people visiting the park continues to increase substantially, despite the difficult access road conditions. The majority of visitors to the park are believed to originate from the Victoria region. View West to Botanical Beach

15 The Role of the Park Regional and Provincial Context Botanical Beach Provincial Park lies within the West Coast Plain Landscape. It has also been identified as an "outstanding" natural feature for intertidal life and tidepools under the "special features" system developed for BC Parks. The Park is located at the western terminus of Highway 14 and is the most westerly in a series of Provincial Parks which include French Beach, China Beach and Loss Creek Provincial Parks. Moreover, the park is an important tourist attraction in the Port Renfrew area, often in association with visits to the West Coast Trail in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve (Figure 2). Conservation Role Botanical Beach Provincial Park achieves the following conservation goals. Preserves a unique natural feature (marine tidepools) within the West Coast Plain Landscape. resources. Protects and presents significant geological, vegetation, and wildlife (marine) Secures archaeological and historical cultural features. community. Conserves a rich intertidal ecosystem, long recognized for its value to the scientific Protects a marine ecosystem with high value to society because of its accessible educational opportunities. 7

16 Presents an upland environment which has been changed by land-use activities and provides an opportunity for long term interpretive educational programs. Protects archaeological and historical resources worthy of long term interpretive educational programs. Recreation Role Botanical Beach Provincial Park satisfies the following recreation goals. Provides people travelling Highway 14 and visiting the Port Renfrew area with outstanding day-use opportunities oriented to a Vancouver Island west coast shoreline environment. Supplies local and regional recreation opportunities including upland hiking, viewing, nature study and picnicking. 8

17

18 Park Zoning Zoning is a procedure used to assist in the planning and management of provincial parks and recreation areas. It divides parks into logical areas of land and water based upon uniform and consistent management objectives. The zones reflect the intended land use, the level of management and development required, and the level of human activity to be accommodated. Appendix II of this plan explains the BC Parks zoning system further. Intensive Recreation, Natural Environment and Special Feature Zones are applied to Botanical Beach Park. Intensive Recreation Zone The objective of this zone is to provide for a variety of readily accessible, facilityoriented outdoor recreation opportunities. In Botanical Beach Park, this zone includes all the area covered by access roads and vehicle parking lots. Natural Environment Zone The objective for the Natural Environment Zone is to protect scenic values and supply backcountry recreation opportunities in a largely undisturbed natural environment. This zone includes the remainder of the park outside the Intensive Recreation and Special Feature Zones. Special Feature Zone The objective of the Special Feature Zone is to protect and present significant natural or cultural resources, features, or processes because of their special character, fragility and heritage values. This zone covers the remnant old-growth forest, the Botanical Beach tidepools, and the entire intertidal area in the park east from District Lot

19

20 Natural and Cultural Resource Management Introduction Resource management will be directed toward preserving the natural features and processes of the park to ensure the maintenance of a quality environment. Special effort will be made to rehabilitate those environments damaged by previous human land-use activities. Visitor use of the tidepools is another resource management consideration emphasized in this plan. Land Two road right-of-ways cross Botanical Beach Provincial Park. Cerantes Road, gazetted in 1968, extends across the park to end in District Lot 444. The West Coast Road, gazetted in 1929, traverses all four lots which make up the park. These road right-of-ways should be added to the park. District Lot 444, strategically located at the west end of the San Juan Peninsula and virtually surrounded by park land, is privately owned. Cerantes Rock, lying immediately west of D.L. 444, is vacant Crown land. Provincially significant natural and outdoor recreation features exist along the District Lot 110 shoreline. District Lot 158, adjacent to the northwest corner of the park, contains impressive outdoor recreation features such as sand beaches, rock platforms and sea stacks. Acquisition of these lands would provide a more rational park boundary and expand the quality of the park s natural, cultural and recreational features. Objectives: To manage the park s upland and marine area for the protection of its natural features and the rehabilitation of the lands affected by past industrial activity. To consolidate the park boundary to ensure full protection of the marine environment and natural, cultural and outdoor recreation features. 12

21

22 To ensure public road access to Botanical Beach Park. To acquire adjacent properties deemed integral to the park. To identify the park's land boundaries. Management Actions: Attempt to extinguish the West Coast Road and Cerantes Road right-of-ways and add these lands to Botanical Beach Park. Acquire, in order of priority, the following properties: - District Lot 444 (San Juan Point); - Cerantes Rock; - District Lot 158; - Islands off District Lot 158; - The southwest portion of District Lot 110 (Tom Baird Creek); metre foreshore strip fronting District Lots 444, 110 and 158. Initiate discussions with Ministry of Transportation and Highways to upgrade and maintain the Cerantes Road right-of-way to the north boundary of the park. Install BC Parks standard signs to define the park's land boundaries. 14

23 Water Botanical Beach Park contains both freshwater and saltwater resources. Past land use activities have affected the water quality of several small streams in the park. An example is logging debris accumulation in the small stream within District Lot 109. BC Parks recently removed this debris. At present, human waste is a problem along the beaches and at parking areas in the park. BC Parks must ensure that adequate sanitary facilities and public education measures are in place to protect water resources. The threat of oil contaminating the intertidal zone of the park was recognized in 1989, following the oil spill off the coast of Washington State. Oil contamination occurred along parts of the exposed west coast of Vancouver Island. Action must be taken to ensure proper response measures are in place in case a similar calamity occurs within Botanical Beach Park. Objectives: To maintain the natural condition and quality of saltwater and all freshwater streams and pools in the park. Management Actions: Establish and maintain contact with the Environmental Protection Division (Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks), the Provincial Emergency Program (Ministry of Attorney General), and the Federal Government to explore what oilspill-control measures may be developed for the protection of the park environment. Install a freshwater well hand pump and public sanitary facilities associated with the Visitor Services Program. 15

24 Forest and Vegetation Botanical Beach Park is special because vegetation resources involve both the land and marine environments. Some people have expressed concern that visitors are removing and damaging vegetation associated with the tidepools. A recent problem detected by BC Parks staff is the removal of "bonsai" trees from the park s upland shore. These "bonsai" trees result from poor soil conditions, salt spray and wind. The logging of the park s upland left an altered vegetation and forest ecosystem. The remnant old-growth forest is a feature worthy of protection and presentation to the public. Equally important, however, BC Parks must institute a program of careful and sensitive rehabilitation of those areas of the park where logging took place and roads were built. Objectives: To protect and maintain the park s forest and land vegetation, marine vegetation and remnant old growth forest ecosystem. To present and interpret for public education the park s forest and vegetation values. To restore damaged forest and land and marine vegetation to natural conditions. Management Actions: Complete a forest and land and marine vegetation inventory to identify plant communities, rare species and threatened plant communities. Restore forest and land and marine vegetation affected by logging, road construction and public recreation activities. Prepare a vegetation management plan. 16

25 Enforce Park Act regulations to prohibit the disturbance and removal of vegetation except as authorized by a valid park-use-permit. Fish Botanical Beach Park provides habitat for freshwater and marine fish. (Fish is defined here as all finfish, such as salmon). Freshwater streams in the park are small. While some fish may live in them, no inventory exists of these fish species. The park s marine environment also is home to a variety of fish, including sculpin and rockfish species. Again no inventory of these fish is available. BC Parks is concerned about the protection of fish species which depend on the waters of Botanical Beach Park for their habitat. The Department of Fisheries and Oceans manages marine fish species. Thus, close cooperation between BC Parks and Fisheries and Oceans must occur to enable proper protection of fish species in the park. Finfish which migrate through the park s waters will remain open to harvesting under the regulations established for Botanical Beach Park by Fisheries and Oceans. Objectives: park. To protect and maintain the variety of marine and freshwater fish found in the To present and interpret for public education the fish species of the park. Management Actions: Complete an inventory of marine and freshwater fish species in the park. Close the park to freshwater fishing. Maintain the existing Department of Fisheries and Oceans fishing closures over the park s intertidal zone. 17

26 Discuss with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans the possibility of expanding the fishing closure to include rockfish species. Limit and place all proposed research activities under park-use permit. Wildlife While Botanical Beach Park does not contain a rich heritage of large land mammals and birds, wildlife species still contribute considerably to the park s diversity. Common bird species include Western and Least Sandpiper, Bald Eagle, Pelagic Cormorant, California Gull, Killdeer, and American Robin. Mammals may include Red Squirrel, Black Bear, Cougar, Black-tailed Deer, River Otter, Mink and Raccoon. Amphibians and reptiles may include Northwestern Salamander, Clouded Salamander, Western Red-backed Salamander, Western Toad, Pacific Treefrog, Common Garter Snake and Pacific Green Sea Turtle. The marine animals, particularly those associated with the tidepools, present a wide variety of species in a small and accessible environment. Sea stars, crabs, purple sea urchin, giant green sea anemones, and goose neck barnacles are common. These marine species are particularly vulnerable to disturbance by people visiting the tidepools. The possibility of oil spills adds further urgency to the management of these species. The park s off-shore waters are also frequented by such large mammals as gray whales, killer whales, northern sea lions and harbour seals, adding to the rich marine wildlife heritage of the park. habitats. A key management direction is to complete an inventory of wildlife species and their Objectives: To protect and maintain the numbers and diversity of marine and terrestrial wildlife found in the park. To present and interpret for public education the wildlife species of the park. 18

27 Management Actions: Prohibit hunting and the discharge of firearms in the park. Establish a comprehensive wildlife education and interpretation program for the park. A prime focus for this action is the marine species in the tidepools and a program which informs the public about the complexity of the ecosystem and the role each person can play in protecting and maintaining the fauna and their habitat. Complete a marine and terrestrial wildlife inventory of the park. Evaluate changes in species habitat and types by comparing current research data with the University of Minnesota research station base line data of 1906, as well as other sources of research from such institutions as the University of British Columbia and University of Victoria. Prohibit the disturbance and removal of marine animals except as authorized by a valid park-use permit. Maintain the existing Department of Fisheries and Oceans fishing closure for octopus, sea urchin and sea cucumber species in the park s foreshore. Cultural Resources Botanical Beach Park is the focus for several interesting cultural themes. Early Native people s use of the park is an obvious theme which should be linked with the Native people history in the general Port Renfrew region. The Pacheenaht Native people of the Port Renfrew area should be consulted to determine the importance of Botanical Beach to their culture. BC Parks should investigate and develop the scientific research theme. The use of the park area for past military purposes is another interesting and relatively unknown cultural theme. 19

28 Objectives: land uses. To protect archaeological and historical resources from disruptive development and To inform the public about the history and past use of the park. Management Actions: Conduct an inventory of archaeological and historic resources (e.g. historic trails, shipwrecks) in Botanical Beach Provincial Park under a Heritage Conservation Act permit issued by the Archaeology Branch, Ministry of Tourism and Ministry Responsible for Culture. Develop and present to the public a history of the Botanical Beach Park area as a marine research station and military defence site. Establish direct contact with the Pacheenaht Native people to determine the significance of the Botanical Beach Park area to their culture. Present to the public a history of Native people s use of the area. Recreation Features and Visual Resources The recreation features and visual resources of the park are extremely significant. The tidepools are identified as nationally significant for aquatic habitat, rock platform and viewing site recreation features. The visual landscape of the park s shore is spectacular, with its rock headlands and high energy wave action when ocean swells strike the rocks. The master plan intends to provide sensitive direction for the protection of these features and visual settings. 20

29 An Example of the Tidepool Formation. Aerial Vie w of Botany Bay

30 Objectives: To ensure that resource management activities, visitor use and park development pose little threat to the park s outdoor recreation features. To protect the visual resources of the park. Management Actions: Encourage people to stay on defined trails through park information and adequately maintained and signed trails. Prepare and implement a Visitor Services management program dedicated to encouraging non-destructive use of the tidepools. Locate and design all park facilities in harmony with the visual setting. Special attention will be given to the location of parking lots, trails and viewing platforms. Produce a forest and vegetation management plan which allows for visual protection and the restoration and repair of damaged areas. Special attention will be given to the logged areas of the park. Scientific Research The tidepools at Botanical Beach drew the scientific community to this area in the first decade of this century. Scientific research into the marine ecosystem at Botanical Beach will continue to be important for our public school system, colleges and universities. As recently as 1989, a University of Washington graduate student completed a doctoral thesis on soft coral found in the tidepools. The research which occurs in the park is currently unauthorized by park-use permit. A major initiative for BC Parks will be documenting this important use of the park. 22

31 Scientific research is also viewed as a strong ally in providing information to the public on safe and compatible use of the park s vulnerable marine environment. BC Parks will support compatible research programs proposed by colleges and universities. Objectives: To authorize existing scientific research activities in the park. To encourage scientific research programs which serve to educate the public and further knowledge about park resources. Management Actions: Document scientific research activities occurring in Botanical Beach Park. Establish criteria to evaluate scientific research activities which satisfy the park s conservation and recreation roles. Issue park-use permits to selected research projects based on criteria evaluation. Example of the Rich Intertidal Marine Life.

32 Visitor Services General Concept Botanical Beach Provincial Park has a high public profile among residents of southern Vancouver Island. People write about the park regularly in local newspapers and magazines. In recent years, the efforts of the provincial government to acquire title to lands at Botanical Beach generated considerable public attention. In addition, educational and environmental groups continue to visit the park and publish their findings. Since the park has gained a high public profile, a major task for this master plan is to build upon this general familiarity so that people are made aware of the park s vulnerable environment and its vast educational potential. The general concept for visitor services management in Botanical Beach Park is to design and locate park facilities in a manner sensitive to the marine environment. Appendix I outlines a comprehensive development concept which recognizes the park s vulnerable marine resources and the need for the efficient management of visitor use. Access Strategy The park s access road is in deplorable condition but, ironically, this has served to protect the tidepools from overuse. Thus, the access strategy becomes a critical consideration in the management of the park. Besides the upgrading of the road inside the park, BC Parks must establish an agreement with the Ministry of Transportation and Highways for the maintenance of Cerantes Road to the park. 24

33 Public road access will end in the central part of the park. The present road down to Botany Bay and the tidepools area will be closed and converted to natural conditions. A new trail will be located to Botany Bay and the tidepools. The strategy is to ensure people have to hike some distance ( metres) to reach the tidepools, thus reducing the temptation to pack out marine animal specimens. This will also prevent current problems posed by four-wheel-drive and all-terrain-vehicle access to the beach. The main road into the park is the primary control for off-hour and seasonal use. BC Parks will place a gate on the access road adjacent to the park s north boundary. Information Strategy Botanical Beach Park presents a unique opportunity for local, provincial and federal government cooperation in providing information to the public. This master plan serves as a catalyst for expanding the tourism base of Port Renfrew, ensuring the public is informed about the management of Botanical Beach Park, and the Federal Government s management of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve and the West Coast Trail. The Botanical Beach Park master plan presents a large-audience promotion and information program. This program is focused on the concept of a visitor centre in Port Renfrew involving the Canadian Parks Service, BC Parks and the local community. The visitor centre would allow BC Parks to introduce Botanical Beach Park as one of many points of interest in this area. Also, the centre permits BC Parks to advise the public about the park s resources, facilities and management. The centre would also perform an education and interpretation function. 25

34 Information and Education Program General Program Direction Developing a strategy which effectively informs and educates the public about Botanical Beach Park s fragile nature is a major challenge for BC Parks. Although the park s marine resources are resilient in a natural, undisturbed setting, concern about damage to these resources is warranted because of the small size of the park and the effects of increasing public use. Large-Audience Program The large-audience program is oriented to educating and informing as large an audience as possible. BC Parks wants to reach its own staff and all potential Botanical Beach Park users including first time visitors, organized groups, retired citizens, casual visitors and local residents. First-time visitors to the park could affect the future of the park s resources more than any others. They pose a concern to park managers because many lack general knowledge of the park. Thus, their impact on park resources could be extensive. Because of their potential large size, organized tours and groups associated with learning and scientific research institutions may have extensive effects on the park. Park managers are particularly aware of the potentially harmful action of people handling and removing marine animals from their environment. In addition, the often large size of organized groups may result in damage to such park resources as sandstone formations. Special efforts must be made to inform residents in Sooke and Port Renfrew about the intent of the park and its management. By assisting BC Parks in monitoring what is occurring in the area, local residents become important allies in the proper management of the park. Changes in use patterns which local people once enjoyed will take place now that Botanical Beach is protected under the Park Act. One example is the prohibition of overnight camping in the park. Changes such as this must be explained to local citizens so that support for the park is maintained. 26

35 Besides the important information purpose of the large-audience program, Botanical Beach Park also provides an outstanding opportunity to educate people. For example, through carefully developed interpretation programs BC Parks could expose visitors to the park s superb natural and cultural values and the special obligations we all share as stewards of these values. A key initiative for the large-audience program is the preparation of a communications plan. This plan will examine how to best communicate with the intended audience. Direct, personal contact with individual park users and groups, such as BC Parks achieves through park interpretation programs, will be an important consideration. Besides personal contact, the communications plan will also consider the following approaches: user satisfaction surveys, signs and displays, park brochures, group field trips, guided tours, written and electronic media, the visitor centre, special park events, and corporate sponsors. The communications plan for the large audience will define the conservation, recreation and safety messages to be presented to the public. BC Parks will consider conservation themes such as protection of the park s marine ecosystem; protection of the park s land ecosystems; old-growth forest; Native people history and archaeological resources; stewardship of the park s resources; and rehabilitation of the park s resources. Recreation themes might include hiking opportunities in the park; bird watching; and proper ways to enjoy the sights and sounds of the park s tidepools. Safety themes will highlight information about the tides, precautions for walking on rock formations, and the dangers posed by fog and storm conditions. The large-audience program will be oriented to year-round communication with all British Columbians. The advantages of the large-audience program include: more innovative programs through special events and corporate sponsorship; park messages reaching a large audience; and benefits for other marine parks in the system. 27

36 The chief disadvantages include larger numbers of people coming to the park; straining BC Parks ability to manage visitors; and increased use pressures on the park s natural and cultural resources. Objectives: To supply a large audience with information which informs them about the park s resources, recreation opportunities and hazards. To furnish information about regional tourism opportunities. To educate the public and BC Parks staff about their obligations as stewards of the park s resources. To maintain effective management of visitor use through a high-profile information program directed to a broad audience. Management Actions: Prepare a large-audience communications plan as outlined above. Try to establish a visitor centre in Port Renfrew. Set up a program which emphasizes contact with larger user groups both within and outside the park. 28

37 Port Renfrew Visitor Centre The Port Renfrew visitor centre is an innovative concept integral to the largeaudience promotion and information program for Botanical Beach Park. The concept is considered a cost-effective measure for local, provincial and federal levels of government to reach more of the public who visit this area. Economic incentives for local employment may be an added benefit. Finally, this centre will remove the need to consider such a costly facility in Botanical Beach Park. The visitor centre would be located in Port Renfrew and provide information primarily about Botanical Beach Park, the West Coast Trail and Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. The centre could also present tourist information about the Cowichan Eco-Museum (includes such sites as the Duncan Forest Museum), the circle tour and attractions along Highway 14. Retail sales of items about these themes would contribute to the centre s selfsufficiency. The visitor centre might focus on the such themes as: 1) resource protection; 2) the marine environment; 3) the region s aboriginal history; 4) scientific research activities; 5) shipwreck trail history; and, 6) local pioneering efforts. Objectives: Renfrew. To participate in the development of a visitor centre at a strategic location in Port Management Actions: Develop and evaluate ideas for the installation of a visitor centre in Port Renfrew. Identify a visitor centre program which satisfies all participant needs. 29

38 Marketing and Promotion The marketing of Botanical Beach Park must be carefully managed. The vulnerable marine resources and public safety are paramount considerations. The prime markets for park information and promotion will be the local and regional population of southern Vancouver Island. Particular emphasis will be placed on families and organized groups. To promote the park s superb natural and cultural resources, BC Parks will market one and two-day tour packages devoted to the appreciation of the tidepools and the oldgrowth forest. The park s beach, picnicking, and hiking opportunities will be marketed in a similar fashion, with one-to-two day tour packages focused on the park s beaches and upland trails. Botanical Beach Park Contains Outstanding Nature Appreciation Opportunities. 30

39 Management Services Park Administration Botanical Beach Park is administered within the South Zone, Malahat Park District. The District headquarters is located at Goldstream Provincial Park. Operations Function Objectives: To maintain a BC Parks presence within Botanical Beach Park to provide park resource management, interpretation and safety services. To manage public access to the park during off hours. Management Actions: Provide a year-round management presence in the park. Establish a volunteer program involving Port Renfrew citizens to assist BC Parks management of the park, particularly in the winter season (October - April). Install a gate at the park entrance to control access to and from the park. Prepare Annual Management Plans which fulfil approved development and management actions presented in this master plan. Monitor changes in environmental conditions and visitor use patterns. Develop park user safety measures which will satisfactorily deal with potential emergencies. Provide a small service yard and building in the park for the storage of tools and equipment. 31

40 Visitor Opportunities Botanical Beach Park is an important attraction for many visitors to the Port Renfrew region. People travel to the Port Renfrew area for a variety of recreation experiences. Many tourists come to the area to spend six to eight days hiking the West Coast Trail. Their time in Port Renfrew is limited to activities associated with preparing for the hike if starting from Port Renfrew, or ending their journey if they started in Bamfield. A growing number of people are coming to Port Renfrew to participate in one-tothree day fishing trips. Camping is available at local private campgrounds in Port Renfrew and on the Pacheenaht reserve. Visitors often look to Botanical Beach Park as another attraction while they are in the area. The largest number of park users continue to be individuals, families and organized groups who visit for the day. As road access improves from Sooke to Port Renfrew, this day-use will continue to grow. The draft master plan public consultation process in early 1992 provided an insight into the recreation activities people expect to participate in at Botanical Beach Park. The vast majority of respondents to the questionnaire want to hike, observe the tidepools, picnic and enjoy the park s scenery. The public also wants to pursue these activities in Botanical Beach Park s unique natural setting of rugged ocean coastline, extensive tidepools and forest backdrop knowing the area is protected by Class A Park status. Botanical Beach Park provides substantial outdoor recreation opportunities oriented to its scenic shoreline and forested upland. 32

41 Natural and Cultural Resource Appreciation Superb opportunities exist in Botanical Beach Provincial Park for natural and cultural resource appreciation. These opportunities range from the viewing of the marine animals in the tidepools to the pleasure of walking through a stand of old-growth western hemlock forest. Objectives: To encourage greater visitor appreciation and understanding of the park s natural and cultural resources. Management Actions: Develop interpretation displays to present the geological and marine ecosystem within the Special Feature Zone of the park. The displays will be located near the tidepools and in the Port Renfrew visitor centre. Develop interpretation displays to present the forest and cultural resources within the park s upland. These displays will be situated at the park s main parking lot and in the Port Renfrew visitor centre. Hiking Hiking opportunities in the park are limited to trails along the seashore and the access road. The master plan advocates a program of enhanced trail development as described in Appendix I. Objectives: To expand and maintain a variety of hiking trails throughout the park. To plan the trails so the public gains scenic views from the seashore and the upland. Management Actions: Implement the trail program outlined in Appendix I. 33

42 Picnicking/Beach Activities Picnicking and beach activities will continue to be a prime activity for people visiting the park. For family groups, the tidepools and the park s sand and pebble beaches are the preferred destination ns. The rock and sandstone outcrops around Botany Bay and east of the tidepools are of secondary interest. Picnicking occurs as an informal activity with beach related recreation. Some picnic facilities will be provided in the park. Objectives: setting. To encourage informal beach and picnicking activities in an unstructured, natural Management Actions: Implement picnicking development as outlined in Appendix I. Fishing/Hunting Fishing occurs along the shore of the park and offshore from small boats. Fishing from shore is not acceptable in the park for conservation and safety reasons. Angling offshore will be permitted for those transient finfish species not affected by Fisheries and Oceans closures. BC Parks, however, will encourage people to pursue angling opportunities away from the park. Because of the park s small size and year-round public use, hunting and the discharge of firearms will be prohibited. Objectives: To protect the park s fish and wildlife species. Management Actions: Permit fishing only for those finfish species not included in the Fisheries and Oceans closures for Botanical Beach Park. Close the park to hunting and the discharge of firearms. 34

43 Camping Overnight camping will not be considered in Botanical Beach Park as long as other alternatives exist outside the park. Private sector camping facilities are available in Port Renfrew. BC Parks will encourage the public to use these facilities. Group Use improved. Organized groups use the park extensively. This use will increase when access is Objectives: To encourage group use of the park under appropriate guidelines for the protection of the park s environment and public safety. Management Actions: Require all commercially guided groups to obtain park-use permits. 35

44 Plan Implementation For the purposes of this master plan, the plan management actions will be implemented in two phases: Phase I (Short term) which occurs from one to three years after approval of the master plan and Phase II (Long term) which occurs from four years and beyond. Natural and Cultural Resource Management Phase I (Short term) Land Add road right-of-ways to the park. Add Lot 444 to the park. Add Cerantes Rock to the park. Improve the condition of Cerantes Road. Install park boundary signs. Water Provide a reliable source of drinking water. Investigate oil spill mitigation measures. Install public sanitary facilities. Forest and Vegetation Complete a forest and land vegetation inventory. Complete a marine vegetation inventory. 36

45 Rehabilitate land and marine vegetation affected by logging, road construction and public recreation activities. Fish Complete an inventory of fish. Close the park to freshwater fishing. Maintain the existing Department of Fisheries and Oceans fishing closures over the park s intertidal zone. Discuss with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans the extension of the fishing closure to include rockfish species. Wildlife Prohibit hunting and discharge of firearms. Complete a wildlife inventory. Prohibit the disturbance and removal of marine animals. Maintain the existing Department of Fisheries and Oceans fishing closure for octopus, sea urchin and sea cucumber species in the park s foreshore. Cultural Resources Consult the Pacheenaht regarding the significance of the park area to their culture. Conduct an inventory of archaeological and historic resources within the park. Scientific Research Develop research program criteria. 37

46 Document and authorize scientific research activities. Phase II (Long term) Land Add Lot 158 and 400 metre foreshore strip to the park. Add portion of Lot 110 and 400 metre foreshore strip to the park. Forest and Vegetation Prepare a forest and vegetation management plan. Prepare a fire, insect and disease management plan. Fish Prepare a fisheries management plan. Wildlife Establish a wildlife education program. Evaluate changes in species habitat and types. Cultural Resources Conduct research and develop a history of the marine research station and military defence site located in the park. Document use of the park area during the prehistoric period. Visitor Services Phase I (Short term) Visitor Opportunities Prepare an interpretation program. 38

47 Implement Phase I of the facility-development program. (See Appendix I). Place all commercially guided groups under park-use permit. Establish guidelines for monitoring group use. Management Services Install a gate at the entrance to the park. Provide summer staff in the park. Develop public safety measures in case of emergencies. Provide service yard and storage building. Prepare Annual Management Plan. Information and Education Program Prepare a communications plan. Develop and evaluate ideas for the Port Renfrew visitor centre and visitor information program. Phase II (Long term) Management Services Monitor changes in environmental conditions and visitor use trends. Visitor Opportunities Implement Phase II of the facility development program. (See Appendix I). 39

48 Plan Bibliography Juan de Fuca Environmental Consultants. Special Features Document and Preliminary Inventory. A draft report for discussion prepared for the Ministry of Parks, Victoria, B.C., 1989, 19 pages. Herunter, Herb and Doug Swanston. Seacology. Botanical Beach Provincial Park Marine Biophysical Inventory. Report prepared for the Ministry of Parks, North Vancouver, B.C., 1990, 20 pages. Ricketts, Edward F. et al. Between Pacific Tides. Stanford University Press, Stanford, California, 1968, 614 pages. Snively, Gloria. Exploring the Seashore in British Columbia. Washington. and Oregon. Gordon Soules Book Publishers Ltd., West Vancouver, B.C., 1985, 240 pages. State of California, Dept. of Parks and Recreation. Point Lobos State Reserve and Carmel River State Beach General Plan. Sacramento, California, 1979, 181 pages. Taylor, Robin E. Visitor Program at Robson Bight Ecological Reserve Summer Unpublished report. Victoria, B.C., 1988, 33 pages. 40

49

50 Introduction Botanical Beach Provincial Park (Figure 1), located 108 kilometres northwest of Victoria, protects and preserves an intertidal biological phenomenon of outstanding significance. Over time, the ocean has eroded the sandstone-conglomerate bedrock at San Juan Point to create impressive tidepools. This natural phenomenon comprises an intertidal environment of abundant ecological associations. Botanical Beach developed an international reputation beginning in 1900 when the University of Minnesota established a marine research station on the site. The area continues to be the subject of research by institutions such as the University of British Columbia and the University of Victoria. Provincial interest in the park began in 1961, when the area was proposed for ecological reserve status to protect its special natural features. At this time, the provincial government established a Land Act reserve to protect the foreshore for the use and enjoyment of the public. The reserve was expanded in 1964, and again in 1966 until it encompassed approximately 47 hectares including 2200 metres of foreshore, fronting all of Lot 109 and some of Lots 108 and 110. Proposals for acquisition of the upland area surrounding the tidepools also began at this time. In 1981, B. C. Parks began a detailed investigation of Botanical Beach that resulted in a park proposal a year later. Botanical Beach was established as a provincial Class A park on February 9, The park includes 231 hectares of upland and 120 hectares of foreshore for a total area of 351 hectares. Botanical Beach contains an irregular shoreline honeycombed with tidepools and depressions, tide rifts, perpendicular walls, overhanging ledges, caves, blowholes and wave resistant schist, along with remnant old-growth forest on the upland area. 42

51

52 The park is situated at the west end of the San Juan Peninsula, 3.5 kilometres southwest of Port Renfrew (Figure 2). Access to the area is by paved highway to Port Renfrew from Victoria and Sooke, followed by a rough four-wheel-drive road south from Port Renfrew. Primitive parking facilities and trails are located within Lot 108 on the southwest side. Large portions of the upland were logged in the early 1960s. In 1987, new logging occurred in the centre portion of Lot 109, covering about 10 hectares. 44

53

54 Natural and Cultural Resources Natural Resources Climate As is typical for the west coast climate, the area receives high precipitation in the form of rainfall. The average annual rainfall for the area is 3,883 mm, with rain falling on 195 days of the year. Snow is a rare occurrence. The temperatures are generally moderate to cool but seldom fall to the freezing point. The average daily temperature is 8.8 C, with a range from 4.9 C C. In winter, the park is subject to cloudy, wet conditions caused by a succession of moisture-laden, low-pressure systems which rise upon contact with the coastal slopes. During summer, frequent spells of fine sunny weather occur as North Pacific high-pressure cells extend over the coast. Physiography The park is included within the Vancouver Island Mountains of the Insular Mountains. Glaciation contributed a wide range of surficial materials. The lack of extensive beaches in the area is due to the resistance of exposed bedrock to erosion since the coastline emerged from its covering of Pleistocene ice. The sea cliffs found in the park resulted from the presence of eroded rock formations susceptible to erosion, such as the softer Cretaceous and Tertiary shales and shaly sandstones. The terrain of the area is largely rolling and hilly. Geology The tidepools are the major geological feature in the park (Figure 3). Scientists believe they were formed through the erosion of bedrock geology. These depressions vary in shape and depth, and occur to different degrees in sandstone, shale and conglomerate rock. The majority of the small pools are circular in shape, while the larger are elliptical. The elliptical shape indicates they were formed from two or more smaller pools. 46

55

56 The principal rock formations of the area are sandstone, shale and conglomerate. The shale lies at the bottom, conglomerate overlies the shale, and sandstone overlies the conglomerate. In many areas the overlying strata is eroded, leaving the conglomerate or shale to form the surface rock. The horizontal rock forming the floor leading to the ocean is greywacke, a type of sandstone. There are extensive sandstone flats of two types of hardness on the eastern portion of the shore. San Juan Point contains quartz veins in tilted beds of schist (layers of unequal hardness). Beach deposits of fragmented slate are found to the east of San Juan Point. Volcanic intrusions of andesite are found off the shoreline. An intriguing shore feature, located east of the park, is the area called the Devil s Billiard Table. It consists of spherical masses from 5 to 10 centimetres in size. These masses consist of sand grains aggregated by a cement of calcium carbonate. The theory of their formation (put forward by a researcher at the Minnesota marine research station) is that the force of crystallization caused the symmetrical shape. Above the tidepools, sheer sandstone cliffs rise about 15 metres above the high tidemark. These cliffs are pitted and carved by the relentless action of the waves, rain, and wind. The Botany Bay area is dominated and protected by rocky headlands and platforms. Some small sea caves exist at several locations along the shoreline. An interesting feature of the upland area is a glacier meltwater channel. The upland area is quite irregular and hilly, and slopes steeply to the south. The bedrock is close to the surface and is exposed in many areas. Soils Since the soils of the park have not as yet been surveyed, only a general description of the soils is provided. 48

57 Because of the high precipitation and low evapo-transpiration levels of the area, the soils are generally moist to wet over most of the year. A high incidence of associated poorly drained soils also typify this area. The soils of the park consist predominantly of ferro-humic podzol. The parent material is coarse textured and acidic because of prolonged chemical weathering of the terrain. Vegetation The vegetation in the upland area of the park is typical of the Sitka spruce subzone of the Coastal Western Hemlock Biogeoclimatic Zone. There is a small remnant example of old-growth forest. Dense, tall salal dominates the understorey, giving way to Sitka spruce, western hemlock and in wet sites, western redcedar. Large portions of the forest were logged in the early 1960s and a smaller area was logged in However, the forest is slowly reclaiming these sites. The marine environment of the park has a great abundance and diversity of plant species. Scientists have recorded more than 231 marine plant species from the site. A new kelp was discovered here in 1905 and was named Renfrewia parvula, but now is known as Laminaria ephemera. An extensive algal forest is found in Botany Bay and is exposed at low tide. Botanical Beach is the first southern location on Vancouver Island where Sea Palm, a brown alga, can be observed. This alga is characteristic of true west coast conditions. 49

58 Wildlife The tidepools offer habitats for a rich variety of marine fauna. Marine life can be viewed here that is seldom observed this high in the intertidal zone. Scientists have recorded over 100 marine invertebrates (animals with no spinal column) found at Botanical Beach. A 1982 report by B.W. Bisgrove lists the marine life found at Botanical Beach. The area provides habitat for many gastropods including limpets, periwinkles and snails. Four species of sea stars are found here, along with species of anemone, coral, chiton, mussel, barnacle, crab, sea urchin, and sea cucumber. The California Mussel Mytilus californicanus, Purple Sea Urchin Strongylocentrotus purpuratus, and the Giant Green Anemone Anthopleura xanthogrammica are abundant species in the area. The offshore ocean forms part of the migration route of the Gray Whale Eschrichtius robustus. Pods of gray whales pass the entrance of the Juan de Fuca Strait throughout April and May. Individual whales often can be observed approximately 20 metres from the shore during the summer season. Killer Whales Orcinus orca, Harbour Seals Phoca vitulina and Northern Sea Lions Eumetopias jubatus also frequent the park s offshore waters. Botanical Beach Park contains a variety of land mammals and birds. H. Van der Pol and K. Taylor, in the July/August and September/October, 1989 issues of The Victoria Naturalist identified the following bird species as common for the park: Western Sandpiper Calidris mauri, Least Sandpiper Calidris minutilla, California Gull Larus californicus, Killdeer Charadrius vociferus, Mew Gull Larus canes, Marbled Murrelet Brachyramphus marmoratus, Pacific Loon Gavia pacifica, Brandt s Cormorant Phalacrocorax penicillatus, Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus, American Robin Turdus migratorius, Belted Kingfisher Ceryle alcyon, Townsend s Warbler Dendrocia townsendi, and American Goldfinch Carduelis tristis. Land mammals which may be found in the park include Red Squirrel Tamiasciurus hudsonicus, Black Bear Ursus americanus, Cougar Felis concolor, Black-tailed Deer Odocoileus hemionus columbianus, River Otter Lontra canadensis, Mink Mustela vison and Raccoon Procyon lotor. Amphibians and reptiles which may be found in the park include Northwestern Salamander Ambystoma gracile, Western Red-backed Salamander Plethodon vehiculum, Western Toad Bufo 50

59 boreas, Pacific Treefrog Hyla regilla, Common Garter Snake Thamnophis elegans and the Pacific Green Sea Turtle Chelonia mydas. Outdoor Recreation Features and Visual Resources Botanical Beach Provincial Park contains a significant variety of outdoor recreation features set in a marine recreation context (Figure 4). The main focus is the nationally and provincially significant tidepools rich with intertidal sea life. Located along the southeast portion of the park s shoreline, these tidepools are internationally renowned. The main pools are adjacent to an impressive rock headland and a small, remnant example of old growth, coastal western hemlock forest. The promontory behind the tidepools provides excellent viewing opportunities. East of the tidepools, the shoreline contains attractive sand and pebble beaches. The upland behind the shore is covered by a mixed forest canopy slowly reclaiming previously logged areas. Excellent camping and picnicking potential is found here. The shoreline west of the tidepools is dominated by rock exposures and headlands. Sheltered sand and pebble pocket beaches are found at Botany Bay. Several large coniferous trees stand isolated behind Botany Bay. Camping and picnicking potential exists in the upland at this location. San Juan Point is a rugged rock promontory extending out into the strait. A small stand of old growth forest remains east of the point. The shoreline is extremely rugged beyond San Juan Point north to the northwest corner of D.L Some small sea caves and pocket beaches exist along the shore. These features are of moderate significance. 51

60 The park has moderately significant cultural recreation features. Three archaeological sites, related to native use, exist in or adjacent to the park. In addition, Botanical Beach was the first marine scientific research station in the Pacific Northwest and functioned as a World War II defence site. Much of the park s upland is ranked as low in feature significance because of past land uses such as logging. Botanical Beach Park s visual qualities are associated with the spectacular panoramic vistas achieved along the shoreline, the remnant old-growth forest, and the colourful rock formations at the tidepools and Botany Bay. At the nearly 100-metre summit on the west side of the park, the viewer is provided with an unobstructed view of the park and the Juan de Fuca Strait. Cultural Resources Although little is known about the early human history of the area, there is evidence that it was used by Native people. There are three archaeological sites (Dd Sc 2, Dd Sc 3, Dd Sc 4) located in or next to the park (Figure 5). It appears that these sites were used by Native people in historic times as shark-fishing camps. The oil was extracted from the shark s liver and used in trade with the Hudson Bay Company. The first marine research station in the Pacific Northwest was established in 1901 by the University of Minnesota. Initially, two buildings were constructed. A two-storey botany laboratory was added later. The buildings provided accommodation for as many as 80 researchers. 52

61 53

62 Tidepools Ranked Very High (*) in Feature Significance The Park s West Coast Rock Platforms and Pocket Beaches

63 Rock Cliffs Behind the Main Tidepools. An Example of Marine Life in a Tidepool. 55

64 Professor Conway MacMillan, state botanist of Minnesota, and Dr. Josephine Tilden of the University of Minnesota, were the main force behind this research station, even funding its operation from their own salaries. In 1906, the station was closed because the University of Minnesota would not support a research program outside the United States of America. The site of the buildings is still discernible although it is being rapidly reclaimed by the forest. During World War II, the Canadian military used the park area for defence of the coast. Remnants of a plank road, constructed to provide access to a gun emplacement, still exist. Resource Analysis This section considers the significance of the natural and cultural resources of the park in relation to the goals of the provincial park system which are: a) to protect examples of the most important representative natural landscapes of B.C.; b) to protect province s key recreation settings and most outstanding scenic features; c) to provide parks that are major outdoor recreation destinations; d) to provide parks along major travel corridors; and e) to provide parks for regional recreation where other agencies cannot. The area is an outstanding intertidal biological environment of national and provincial significance. The park s location on southern Vancouver Island allows the public access to a west coast environment which is unique because of the combination of biological diversity, geological features, coastal scenery, and marine biological history. 56

65 57

66 The shoreline of Vancouver Island between Victoria and Port Renfrew is identified in the BC Parks draft Victoria Sub-Regional Systems Plan as the Juan de Fuca Parkway. The park contributes to the main objective of the Sub-Regional Systems Plan as part of the Juan de Fuca Parkway. The parkway is a recreational corridor with provincial parks serving as focus points for the public to encounter a variety of outstanding marine environments along the west coast of Vancouver Island (Figure 2). China Beach and French Beach provincial parks present a sandy shoreline environment. Loss Creek Provincial Park conserves and presents a stand of old-growth coastal western hemlock forest. Botanical Beach presents another important but different recreation opportunity. Acting as the western terminus of the parkway, the park provides the most biologically significant marine environment in this chain of provincial parks between Victoria and Port Renfrew. 58

67 Recreation Opportunities Camping and picnicking potential exists in the uplands behind the shore east of the tidepools and at Botany Bay. Opportunities exist for short day hikes to destinations in the upland areas and isolated pocket beaches past the tidepools. Nature appreciation is a major attraction emanating from the park s marine environment, tidepools, and panoramic views, and the presence of whales. Existing facilities at Botanical Beach Park consist of rough-road access and primitive parking and trails located within Lot 108 and 109 on the south side of the park. 59

68 Tenures, Occupancy Rights, and Jurisdictions Leases and Use Permits The provincial government and the Nature Trust of British Columbia entered into a 99-year lease for Lot 1, D.L.109, R.D., Plan 6459-C on May 14, The lease is effective from June 1, Right-of-ways The West Coast Road right-of-way - Plan 1710-B, lots 108, 109, 448 and 710, was gazetted February 7, The Cerantes Road right-of-way - Plan 1786, lots 448 and 710, was gazetted August 15, Fee simple land holdings D.L. 444 on the west side of the park is privately owned. D.L. 110 on the southeast side of the park and D.L. 158 on the northwest side, are privately owned. Forest Tenures - N/A Mineral Tenures - N/A Water rights - N/A Trespasses - N/A Statutory Jurisdictions - The Park Act is subject to the Environment and Land Use Act and the Waste Management Act. In addition, the Heritage Conservation Act and the Wildlife Act apply in Provincial Parks. Special Regulations - N/A 60

69 61

70 Market Analysis Existing Use A recreation-capability study conducted in 1982 by BC Parks estimated use of Botanical Beach at 2,000-3,000 party days. In 1987, the Capital Regional District estimated the number of yearly visits to be in excess of 10,000. BC Parks, however, placed an automated vehicle counter on the Botanical Beach Park access road from mid-june to mid-september, The counter recorded some 6500 vehicles during this period. Thus, over 22,000 people (6500 x 3.5 persons per party) visited the park in the summer of The majority of visitors come from the Victoria region. Interested individuals, school groups, and natural history groups will likely continue to be the primary users of the park. Promotion and Information Botanical Beach is already world renowned, largely because of published articles on the area, scientific research, and word-of-mouth. BC Parks produced an information brochure in 1989 advising the public about the park and access conditions. Park Product The shoreline of the park offers scenery and coastal features of national and provincial significance. The tidepools, which the area is most noted for, are an unusual natural feature offering special habitats for intertidal sea life. Another major attraction is the presence of gray whales close to shore and the potential to observe these animals on their yearly migration. 62

71 Popular activities in the park include picnicking, interpretation, education, photography and viewing. Botanical Beach offers a valuable day-use experience with the potential for day hikes and beach exploration to the isolated pocket beaches and upland summits along the west coast of the park, beyond the tidepool area. The outstanding marine environment provides opportunities for nature study of intertidal sea life. Picnicking sites are available along the shoreline of the park. The previously logged upland environment provides the opportunity for long-term interpretive education programs. 63

72 Master Plan Issues Park Role The Botanical Beach master plan will address the following issues. Botanical Beach Park is the western terminus of the Juan de Fuca Parkway. The park is located close to Port Renfrew and Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. The master plan will define the role the park will play in the parkway and its relationship with local communities, adjacent landowners and Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Natural and Cultural Resource Protection The park s tidepools are rich in variety and quantity of marine life. The park also contains remnant old-growth forest and archaeological sites. These resources are vulnerable as evidenced by the recent Vancouver Island oil spill. The master plan will identify the management objectives and actions needed to protect the park s natural and cultural resources and those measures to be taken in the event of pollution or similar emergency. Vegetation Management Private interests logged much of the park s upland forest. The master plan will establish a management strategy to inventory vegetation resources, evaluate the inventory data, and prepare a vegetation management plan which will emphasize a return to a coastal western hemlock environment. Park Facility Development Except for the existing four-wheel-drive access road to Botany Bay and the upland east of the tidepools, Botanical Beach Park has no recreation facilities. The master plan will identify compatible recreation opportunities and facilities which adequately protect the park s fragile resources yet provide reasonable pub lic access. 64

73 Public Education and Information Botanical Beach Park contains an outstanding marine showcase. Educational institutions, such as the University of British Columbia, have long recognized and used this natural educational laboratory. The master plan will prepare a program to continue this vital role while also educating the public to respect and protect these resources. Park Boundary Botanical Beach Park virtually encloses private land (D.L. 444) on its west side. The West Coast Road right-of-way still encumbers the park s upland. Significant shoreline and upland resources exist within District Lot 110 on the park s east side and District Lot 158 adjacent to the northwest side of the park. The master plan will identify areas where boundary changes should be considered in relation to park resource management and recreation use requirements. 65

74 Bibliography Bisgrove, B. W. Ecological Reserves, and Some Other Locations, in Southern Vancouver Island as Sites for Marine Research, University of Victoria, B.C., 1982, 57 pages. Blier, Richard K. "The West Coast Road", B.C. Outdoors, Volume 45, No. 5, Vancouver, B.C., Summer 1989, Pages B.C. Ministry of Lands, Parks and Housing. Botanical Beach Recreation Capability Study, Victoria, B.C., 1982, 14 pages. Coull, Cheryl. "Botanical Beach", Beautiful British Columbia Magazine, Volume 26, No. 1, Vancouver, B.C., Pages Ellis, D.V. and D.J. Steele. Botanical Beach Ecological Reserve Proposal - I.B.P. Survey, University of Victoria, Victoria, B.C., 1974, 17 pages. Environment Canada. Land Capability for Recreation - Victoria (92 B.C) Map Area, Information Canada, Ottawa, Herunter, Herb and Doug Swanston, Seacology. Botanical Beach Provincial Park Marine Biophysical Inventory. Report prepared for the Ministry of Parks, North Vancouver, B. C., 1990, 29 pages. Scott, R.B. People of the Southwest Coast of Vancouver Island. Morriss Printing Company, Victoria, B.C., 1974, 138 pages. University of Minnesota. Postelsia: The Yearbook of the Minnesota Seaside Station, St. Paul, Minnesota, Volumes 1-2, 1906, 347 pages. 66

75 Van der Pol, H. and K. Taylor. "An Annotated List of the Birds of Southwest Vancouver Island", The Victoria Naturalist, Volume 45.7, Victoria, B.C., July - August, 1989, Pages "An Annotated List of the Birds of Southwest Vancouver Island", The Victoria Naturalist, Volume 46.2, Victoria, B.C., September - October, 1989, Pages

76

77

78 Introduction B.C. Parks identified the preparation of a facility-development concept plan as a vital part of the Botanical Beach Park master planning process. The park requires sensitive and careful planning to adequately protect the park s natural and cultural resources. A number of basic ideas for developing facilities in Botanical Beach Park were cooperatively developed by the BC Parks master planning team and representatives of the Port Renfrew council, the Pacheenaht Indian Band, the Capital Regional District and Pacific Rim National Park in October, BC Parks also received responses to letters written to interested groups and individuals who, in the past, expressed concern about the park s future development. The development concept will be governed by the following principles advanced by the public and B.C. Parks staff. The natural environment and cultural resources of the park will be protected. Overnight camping will not be permitted in the park as long as sufficient opportunities exist outside the park. Parking facilities will be concentrated in the central part of the park to provide further security for the tidepools. The existing road to the tidepools area will be removed and the area restored to natural conditions. to the park. Information facilities will be sited at the key entry points (parking lots and trailheads) Foot access will be provided to the west part of the park. 70

79 parking lots. Old logging road right-of-ways will be used to locate sites for trails, roads and Botany Bay and the tidepools trails and viewing platforms will be suitable for wheelchair access. BC Parks will place a gate at the entry to the park to manage vehicle access. All major facility development projects will be subject to environmental and archaeological impact assessments prior to construction. Development Concept The main reason for the creation of Botanical Beach Park is the special marine ecosystem in the tidepools. Few areas in the BC Parks system match the superb display of intertidal life provided by Botanical Beach Park. Beyond the marine focus of the park, however, an opportunity exists to expand public recreation and educational opportunities in other areas of the park. To ensure the park s natural and cultural resources are protected, while satisfying these other opportunities, requires careful planning of the location and type of BC Parks recreation facilities. The location of park roads, parking lots and trails is particularly crucial. A significant portion of Botanical Beach Provincial Park is affected by past logging activities. This previous land use presents problems as well as opportunities. In the Botanical Beach Park master plan, BC Parks addresses several significant resource management issues caused by the removal of the forest cover. Ironically, the logging road system provides access to the park s hinterland and recreation features. 71

80 BC Parks staff and the public want adequate protection for the unique marine ecosystem found in the tidepools at Botanical Beach. Therefore, the location of park facilities is critical. Also, development on a modest scale will help in managing the numbers of visitors in the park. Present Access The existing logging road provides a rough route to a parking area just north of Botany Bay. The road also has a spur which provides access to a site north of the main tidepools. The rough condition of the road generally restricts access to four-wheel-drive vehicles with high clearance. But during the drier summer months, it is not uncommon to find people driving ordinary two-wheel-drive vehicles into the park. Damage to vehicles sometimes results because of the rocky and deeply trenched road surface. The present road alignment crosses several short but steep rises for most of the 1.5 kilometres from the park boundary to the parking area next to Botany Bay. The parking area consists of an extensive flat bench cleared by previous logging. The Concept for the Main Parking Lot and Botany Bay Development The following development is proposed for the main parking lot and Botany Bay (Facility Area A). Construct 600 metres of gravel access road. Install a unit parking lot. Place picnic tables adjacent to the trail viewing sites. Install an No. 1 information-centre shelter next to the parking lot. Develop sanitary facilities near the main parking lo t. 72

81 73

82 Construct 750 metres of trail from the parking lot to Botany Bay beach. Develop metres of Type II trail from the Botany Bay beach area to the tidepools. An important consideration in trail construction is the surface material to be used. The wet climatic regime and the rapid growth of salal will make trail maintenance a major management challenge. Boardwalks may be necessary. In addition, all trails will be accessible for wheelchair users. The main parking lot will be located in the centre of the park (Figure 1). An evaluation of possible sites for a 75-to-100 car parking lot and toilet facilities is required. This parking lot location will allow BC Parks to place vehicles well away from the main tidepools and permit practical management of vehicle access. The Concept for Tidepools Development The logging road branches at the south boundary of Lot 448, travels about 150 metres southeast, then southerly 700 metres within Lot 109 northeast of the main tidepools. This route currently provides vehicle access for the public. This road will be removed and rehabilitated as natural area. A new trail location will be considered in this part of the park. The tidepools are the main feature of interest to the public at this location. But this area also has the best pebble and sand beaches in the park. Splendid views of the Strait of Juan De Fuca are another attraction. A trail will be built along the backshore from the tidepools east to the park boundary. Area B). The following development is proposed for the tidepools beach area (Facility Install information and sanitary facilities. 74

83 Construct a viewing platform on the promontory above the main tidepools. This is a facility which requires careful assessment because of safety and visual resource impairment considerations. The platform must be accessible for wheelchair users. Bay. Develop metres of trail from the tidepools along the backshore to Botany Construct a viewing platform along the trail from the tidepools to Botany Bay. The same considerations apply to this facility as the promontory platform. Develop an 800-metre trail from the Botany Bay trail to the tidepools beach. This trail may be considered as an alternative route to the tidepools when current road access is abandoned. Location and need must be determined. Develop an 800-metre trail from the tidepools east to the park boundary. This trail will provide the public with access to the east beach areas. The Concept for West Beach Trail Development The West Beach trail will complement the facility development at Botany Bay and the tidepools. The development will consist of a loop-trail system to the west coast of the park. A trail will be constructed which begins at the main parking lot, then traverses the north, west and south side of Lot 710 and the northwest side of Lot 108. Trail location will kept well away from Lot 444 which is privately owned. People will have the option of walking back to the main parking lot or carrying on to Botany Bay. The West Beach Trail system will provide the public with the opportunity to gain access to the rugged west coast area of the park. Also, BC Parks will build a trail to the nearly 100-metre high summit in the extreme northwest corner of the park. This site will provide unobstructed views of the park and the Strait of Juan De Fuca. 75

84 BC Parks will also provide a small (10 to 15 unit) parking lot and toilet facilities near the north boundary of the park. People will leave their vehicles here should BC Parks close access to the main parking lot during the winter season. The following development is proposed for the West Beach Trail. Develop 3000 metres of trail. Build a viewing platform at a strategic location along the trail. Facility requirements are similar to those in place for the promontory platform. Construct a small parking lot and toilet facilities near the park s north boundary. Schedule for Facility Development Phase I The following projects are first priority: unit parking lot; 600 metre gravel access road; 750-metre trail from main parking lot to Botany Bay; 800-metre trail from Botany Bay to the tidepools; Two information shelters; four toilets; picnic tables; Traffic control gate; and, 76

85 a small parking lot and toilet facilities near the park s north boundary. Phase II The following projects are second priority: 3000-metre trail for the west coast; 800-metre trail from the tidepools to the park s east boundary; Three viewing platforms; and, 800-metre trail from the Botany Bay road to the tidepools. 77

86 BOTANICAL BEACH PROVINCIAL PARK Master Plan APPENDIX II BC Parks Zoning

87

88 ZONING IN BC PARKS Intensive Recreation Natural Environment OBJECTIVE To provide for a variety of To protect scenic values and to readily accessible, facility- provide for backcountry oriented outdoor recreation recreation opportunities in a opportunities. largely undisturbed natural environment. USE LEVEL Relatively high density and Relatively low use but higher long duration types of use. levels in association with nodes of activity or access. MEANS OF ACCESS All-weather public roads or Mechanized (power-boats, other types of access where use snowmobiles, all terrain levels are high (see "Impacts" vehicles), non-mechanized below). (foot, horse, canoe, bicycle). Aircraft and motorboat access to drop-off and pickup points will be permitted. LOCATION Contiguous with all-weather Removed from all-weather roads and covering immediate roads but easily accessible on a areas, modified landscapes or day-use bas is. Accessible by other high-use areas. mechanized means such as boat or plane. SIZE OF ZONE Small; usually less than 2,000 Can range from small to large. ha. BOUNDARY DEFINITION Includes areas of high facility Boundaries should consider development in concentrated limits of activity/facility areas areas. relative to ecosystem characteristics and features. RECREATION Vehicle camping, picnicking, Walk-in/boat-in camping, OPPORTUNITIES beach activities, power-boating, power-boating, hunting, canoeing, kayaking, strolling, canoeing, kayaking, historic and nature backpacking, historic and appreciation, fishing, nature appreciation, fishing, snowplay, downhill and cross- cross-country skiing, country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, river rafting, specialized activities. horseback riding, heli-skiing, heli-hiking, and specialized activities. 80

89 Special Feature Wilderness Recreation Wilderness Conservation To protect and present To protect a remote, To protect a remote, significant natural or cultural undisturbed natural landscape undisturbed natural landscape resources, features or processes and to provide backcountry and to provide unassisted because of their special recreation opportunities backcountry recreation character, fragility and heritage dependent on a pristine opportunities dependent on a values. environment where air access pristine environment where no may be permitted to designated motorized activities will be sites. allowed. Generally low. Very low use, to provide Very low use, to provide solitary experiences and a solitary experiences and a wilderness atmosphere. Use wilderness atmosphere. Use may be controlled to protect may be controlled to protect the environment. the environment. Various; may require special Non-mechanized; except may Non-mechanized (no air access permit. permit low frequency air access access); foot, canoe (horses to designated sites; foot, canoe may be permitted). (horses may be permitted). Determined by location of Remote; generally not visited Remote; not easily visited on a special resources; may be on a day-use basis. day-use basis. surrounded by or next to any of the other zones. Small; usually less to 2000 Large; greater than 5,000 ha. Large; greater than 5,000 ha. hectares. Area defined by biophysical Defined by ecosystem limits Defined by ecosystem limits characteristics or the nature and and geographic features. and geographic features. Will extent of cultural resources Boundaries will encompass be designated under the Park (adequate to afford protection). areas of visitor interest for Act. specific activities supported by air access. Will be designated under the Park Act. Sight-seeing, historic and Backpacking, canoeing, Backpacking, canoeing, nature appreciation. May be kayaking, river rafting, nature kayaking, river rafting, nature subject to temporary closures and historic appreciation, and historic appreciation, or permanently restricted hunting, fishing, cross-country fishing, cross-country skiing, access. skiing, snowshoeing, horseback snowshoeing, horseback riding, riding, specialized activities specialized activities (eg. (eg. caving, climbing). caving, climbing). 81

90 Intensive Recreation Natural Environment FACILITIES May be intensely developed for Moderately developed for user user convenience. convenience. Trails, walk Campgrounds, landscaped in/boat-in campsites, shelters; picnic/play areas, trail, accommodation buildings may accommodation or interpretive be permitted; facilities for buildings, boat launches; motorized access eg. docks, administrative buildings, landing strips, fuel storage, etc. service campgrounds, gravel pits, disposal sites, wood lots, parking lots, etc. IMPACTS ON NATURAL Includes natural resource Area where human presence on ENVIRONMENT features and phenomena in a the land is not normally visible; primarily natural state but facility development limited to where human presence may be relatively small areas. readily visible both through the Facilities are visually existence of recreation facilities compatible with natural setting. and of people using the zone. Includes areas of high facility development with significant impact on concentrated areas. MANAGEMENT Oriented toward maintaining a Oriented to maintaining a GUIDELINES high quality recreation natural environment and to experience. Intensive providing a high quality management of resource and/or recreation experience. Visitor control of visitor activities. access may be restricted to Operational facilities designed preserve the recreation for efficient operation while experience or to limit impacts. remaining unobtrusive to the Separation of less compatible park visitor. recreational activities and transportation. Designation of transportation modes may be necessary to avoid potential conflicts (eg. horse trails, cycle paths, hiking trails). EXAMPLES OF ZONING Campground in Rathtrevor Core area in Cathedral Park; Beach Park; Gibson Pass ski North beach in Naikoon Park. areas in E.C. Manning Park. 82

91 Special Feature Wilderness Recreation Wilderness Conservation Interpretive facilities only, Minimal facility development. None. resources are to be protected. Limited development for user convenience and safety, and protection of the environment eg. trails, primitive campsites, etc. Some basic facilities at access nodes, eg. dock, primitive shelter, etc. None; resources to be Natural area generally free of Natural area generally free of maintained unimpaired. evidence of modern human evidence of modern human beings. Evidence of human beings. presence is confined to specific facility sites. Facilities are visually compatible with natural setting. High level of management Oriented to protecting a pristine Oriented to protecting a pristine protection with ongoing environment. Management environment. Management monitoring. Oriented to actions are minimal and not actions are minimal and not maintaining resources and, evident. Managed to ensure evident. Managed to ensure where appropriate, a high low visitor use levels. Visitor low visitor use levels. Visitor quality recreational and access may be restricted to access may be restricted to interpretive experience. Active protect the natural environment protect the natural environment or passive management and visitor experience. and visitor experience. depending on size, location, and nature of the resource. Visitor access may be restricted to preserve the recreation experience and to limit impacts. Tidepools in Botanical Beach Quanchus Mountains Central Valhallas Wilderness in Park; Sunshine Meadows in Wilderness in Tweedsmuir Valhalla Park; Garibaldi Park Mount Assiniboine Park. Park; Wilderness Zone in Nature Conservancy Area. Spatsizi Park. 83

92 BOTANICAL BEACH PROVINCIAL PARK Master Plan APPENDIX III Public Consultation Process Management Actione Review and Summary of Public Comments

93

94 Public Consultation Process The Botanical Beach Park master planning process involved two stages of public consultation. The first stage saw the production of a background document. The Malahat District circulated copies of this report to special interest groups, an adjacent landowner, the Port Renfrew Town Council, Capital Regional District, institutions such as the University of Victoria, and individual citizens who expressed interest in the master plan. Members of the BC Parks Botanical Beach Park Master Plan team met with representatives of the Port Renfrew Town Council and the Canadian Parks Service in the autumn of 1989 to discuss the project. The second stage of public consultation consisted of distribution of close to 200 copies of the draft master plan to interest groups, agencies and citizens. BC Parks then held open house meetings to discuss the draft master plan in Sooke, Port Renfrew and Victoria from January 21 to 23, As part of the public involvement process, BC Parks distributed a questionnaire at the public meetings. We also enclosed the same questionnaire with master plans mailed out to the public. We received over 90 questionnaire responses and several letters from the public. The public comments on each of the following master plan management proposals are a summary of the questionnaire results, verbal comments at the open houses, and letters received from January to April,

95 Management Actions Review Expanding Parks Boundaries Public Comment Question 1 of the questionnaire asked people whether they favoured or opposed expansion of the park boundaries. The majority of respondents favoured expanding the park. Several people commented that the proposed additions would add important natural features to the park. Others wondered about the cost of acquiring these properties. Analysis The draft master plan recommends the addition of adjacent lands and waters. These additions will ensure a more viable park. Plan Recommendation The additions recommended in the draft plan will stand as defined. Priority for Park Additions Public Comment Question 2 of the questionnaire asked people to assign a priority to the acquisition proposals. The majority of respondents saw District Lot 444 as the highest priority followed in order by Cerantes Rock, D.L.110, the 400 metre foreshore area, D.L.158, and the islands off D.L.158. A number of respondents felt there was some urgency to acquire D.L.158 because of proposed logging within the lot. Others see D.L.444 as an essential addition. Analysis BC Parks listed the priority of land acquisitions based on such criteria as natural features and management considerations. The public involvement process brought to our attention proposed land use activities within D.L. 158 which may result in the loss of forest values and recreation opportunities. Plan Recommendation The master plan will retain the priority list as defined in the draft master plan. Priority for Management Actions Question 8 asked the public to place priorities on the various management actions advanced in the draft master plan. The following is a review of the public comments on this area of the master plan, in the order of priority the public ranked them. In addition, comments made in response to question 9 - if you were park manager... what would you propose? 87

96 - and question 13 - other comments? - are quoted where they relate to specific management actions. 1. Prohibit Hunting Public Comment: Most of the public ranked this management action as the highest priority listed in the questionnaire. People want to view the animal life inhabiting the park s marine and upland environments. People also want this wildlife protected. Analysis Botanical Beach Park contains a rich marine ecosystem which supports a variety of wildlife, from resident small animals such as otter to the larger, transient species like sea lions and seals. The park s upland provides habitat for mink, black bear and birds. This wildlife is an important feature of the park and will be protected. The park s small size also precludes the discharge of firearms for safety reasons. Plan Recommendation The master plan will retain the action to close the park to hunting and the discharge of firearms. 2. Install Freshwater Well and Public Sanitary Facilities Public Comment The public strongly support the installation of a freshwater well and public sanitary facilities. Many people mentioned that toilets are needed in the park to protect the environment and public health. Typical of this viewpoint is this comment: "Ensure proper sanitation facilities are installed and interpretive information to assist with protection of marine and vegetation resources and wildlife." Analysis At present Botanical Beach Park contains no safe drinking water source. In addition, BC Parks does not supply any toilets. To ensure public health standards are protected the master plan sets a high priority for such facilities. The public supports this initiative. Plan Recommendation The master plan action to supply these facilities will be emphasized in the water section of the master plan. 88

97 3. Ensure All Proposed Research Activities Have Permits Public Comments A large majority of the public respondents to the questionnaire see this as a high priority management action. Analysis Research activities have occurred at Botanical Beach Park over the years. BC Parks needs to document this use to ensure such activities are compatible with management objectives for the park. Plan Recommendation The master plan action to issue park-use-permits to selected research projects based on criteria evaluation will be supported as a high priority for management. 4. Build New Trails to Botany Bay and the Tidepools and build Day-use Facilities Public Comments These two management actions received strong support as a priority for implementation. On the other hand, some respondents viewed the construction of day-use facilities as low priority. Several respondents wrote that good trails to the beaches are required. But people indicated that BC Parks must exercise caution and care. The following quote illustrates this opinion: "Trails: please no Carmanah Pacific type trails - wide and destructive... We welcome warmly, positive action to preserve and enhance this much-loved area; over-use is a real danger..." Analysis The trails put in to provide access to the tidepools and Botany Bay are critical to the effective management of the park. BC Parks spent considerable time and effort in evaluating this facility issue. The public s response to the questionnaire indicates this approach is indeed supported. Plan Recommendation The program for providing trail and day use facilities outlined in the draft plan will be implemented with care. 5. Prohibit Fishing Public Comments The majority of respondents support the fishing closure as a priority management action. This question, however, also elicited a considerable number of responses which listed this action as a low priority. Indeed, some people opposed the closure. At the Port Renfrew public meeting several people indicated their concern about losing fishing opportunities around Cerantes Rock. They consider this a traditional activity for local residents. Commercial fishing guides from Port Renfrew also expressed concern about how they will be affected by the proposed fishing closure. Written comments ranged from: "I would not prohibit saltwater fishing for 89

98 salmon" to "Commercial fishing within 400 metres be banned. Fishing from shoreline be banned. Recreational fishing from a boat be permitted within 400 metres." Analysis The fishing closure proposal resulted in significant opposition. The public, however, strongly supports closure of fishing from the shore for safety and conservation reasons. At the public meetings people also advised BC Parks staff that scuba diving occurs in the park s foreshore resulting in the loss of such marine species as sea urchin. BC Parks sought fishing closures in the summer of 1991 from Fisheries and Oceans for fish species at Botanical Beach Park. Fisheries and Oceans responded by approving fishing closures which now close all the intertidal zone fronting Botanical Beach west to San Juan Point to sport fishing (collecting). In addition, fishing for octopus, sea cucumber and sea urchin is prohibited in all foreshore waters within Botanical Beach Park. Plan Recommendation BC Parks evaluated the management approach outlined in the draft master plan based on public concerns expressed in the consultation process. Accordingly, the master plan is changed to state the following management actions under the Fish section: Maintain the existing Department of Fisheries and Oceans fishing closures over the park s intertidal zone. Discuss with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans the expansion of the fishing closure to include rockfish species. In the Wildlife section, the following action will be stated: Maintain the existing Department of Fisheries and Oceans fishing closures for octopus, sea urchin and sea cucumber species in the par s foreshore. In the Fishing/Hunting section of Visitor Services, the following action will be stated: Permit fishing only for those fish species not included in the Fisheries and Oceans closures for Botanical Beach Park. 6. Upgrade Cerantes Road (provide gravel access) Public Comments A majority of respondents see this as a high priority action. Generally, comments consisted of the following views: "It (the park) should be accessible to a variety of people so access definitely has to be improved (for emergency reasons too) without too much destruction of the area;" and "Better access roads with directional maps as well as basic facilities for tourists..." In 1991, the BC Parks Malahat District received close to 200 satisfaction survey cards from the public at Botanical Beach. The overwhelming issue raised by these respondents was the need to improve Cerantes Road. 90

99 Analysis Cerantes Road is recognized as a major obstacle to safe park access. Improvements to the road will require the cooperation of the Ministry of Transportation and Highways. Plan Recommendation The master plan will retain this action as a high priority. 7. Remove Logging Slash and Debris in the Stream Northeast of the Tidepools Public Comments The public generally supports this as a priority action. Analysis The debris built up in this stream posed environmental and aesthetic problems. BC Parks has already improved this stream by removing most of the debris. Plan Recommendation This action will be removed from the plan text as completed. 8. Establish a Volunteer Program Public Comments A majority of the public supported this management action. Many people see volunteers as a valuable ally in educating park visitors and assisting BC Parks in managing the park. Comments included the following: "The volunteer program to help manage the park is a good idea. However, day to day volunteers would be limited in number since Port Renfrew and Sooke do not have large population. You could involve other groups from Victoria in park cleanup and trail building, for instance hiking and outdoor groups taking turns at intervals throughout the year. A few that come to mind are: Victoria Outdoor Club, Club Tread, Cordova Bay Hikers, and YM/YWCA. There are probably quite a few others." Analysis The concept of using volunteers in Botanical Beach Park is important to the master plan concept. Public support is evident. The challenge for BC Parks is how to effectively implement such a program. Plan Recommendation The master plan will retain this program as a Phase II, long-term management action. 91

100 9. Build a Visitor Centre in Port Renfrew Public Comments Most respondents to the questionnaire supported this concept. In addition, many Port Renfrew residents expressed support for this action to BC Parks representatives at the public open house meeting. People liked the idea of Canadian Parks Service, BC Parks and Port Renfrew cooperating in this concept. People also mentioned economic benefits which might accrue to Port Renfrew. Analysis The idea of the Port Renfrew visitor centre met with strong public and community support. BC Parks sees some economic benefits for the local community. Visitors will be made aware of the attractions in the area, including the West Coast Trail and nearby provincial parks. Plan Recommendation The Port Renfrew visitor centre will be a high priority management action. 10. Install Park Signs and Restore Vegetation Public Comments Both these management actions gained general support. People made some interesting observations about the restoration of the logged over area within D.L For example one person stated: "Repair the damage but do not create an artificial environment." Another respondent said: "The park should be kept as natural as possible. Let nature right the situation in most cases... stumps, etc. will eventually rot and new trees do come up." Analysis The logged area within D.L. 109 is recognized as a problem area. The public supports restoring the area. At the same time, people recommend BC Parks carefully evaluate how restoration of the site is carried out. Plan Recommendation The master plan emphasizes that restoration of logged areas must be carefully assessed. The installation of park boundary signs is recognized as a priority action. 11. Resource Inventories Public Comments Surprisingly, public comments ranked resource inventories as having the lowest priority as management actions in the master plan. 92

101 Analysis One of the most important considerations for a resource management agency is to know what values it is protecting and the status of these values. Inventory of these values is vital to answer these management responsibilities. Plan Recommendation BC Parks considers the inventory of park values as a significant responsibility. Therefore, the inventory programs outlined in the master plan will be kept as priority management actions. 93

102 SUMMARY OF PUBLIC COMMENTS During January 1992, BC Parks held public meetings in Victoria, Sooke and Port Renfrew to provide an opportunity for the general public to review and comment on the draft Master Plan for Botanical Beach Provincial Park. The purpose of the draft Master Plan was to indicate how BC Parks intends to manage and guide the development of the Park in the future. The public meetings gave the participants an opportunity to review the master plan, to talk to park staff about it and to complete a short questionnaire. In total, 94 participants filled out the questionnaire. This report provides a summary of their responses. 1. About 6 in 10 respondents (59%) had used the park in About 85 percent of the respondents had used the park sometime before. The question was: Next, did you happen to use Botanical Beach Park in 1991? Note: Geographically, nearly half the respondents came from Victoria (46 %), about 39 % came from Port Renfrew (24%) and Sooke (16%) and the remaining 15% came from the other communities. The average age of respondents was 49 years and about half were females (49%) and half were males (51 %). 94

103 2. About three quarters of respondents (76%) indicated they strongly or somewhat favour expanding the park boundaries. OPINION ABOUT EXPANDING BOUNDARIES OF BOTANICAL BEACH PARK* The question was: First, we'd like to know your view about expanding the size of Botanical Beach Provincial Park. The proposed park additions are indicated on pages 13 and 14 of the draft master plan. In general, to what extent do you favour or oppose expanding the boundaries of this park? 95

104 3. Acquiring Lot District 444 (San Juan) (71 %) and Cerantes Rock (66 %) were two areas that respondents felt should be given high priority. PRIORITY OF PARK ADDITIONS FOR BOTANICAL BEACH PROVINCIAL PARK * The question was: Listed below the are the park additions being proposed for Botanical Beach Provincial Park. For each of the following, please indicate if you think adding these areas should NOT be a management action, or it should be a LOW priority, MEDIUM priority, or HIGH priority management action for BC Parks. 96

105 4. Prohibit hunting (93%), installing freshwater/public sanitary facilities (78%), ensuring all proposed research activities require a park use permit (71 %) and building a new trail to botany bay and the tidepools (60%) were four specific management actions that respondents felt should receive high priority. PRIORITY OF SPECIFIC MANAGEMENT ACTIONS FOR BOTANICAL BEACH PROVINCIAL PARK * The question was: Here are a few more management actions that are identified in the master plan for this park. For each one, please indicate if you think it should NOT be a management action, or it should be a LOW priority, a MEDIUM priority, or HIGH priority management action for BC Parks. 97

106 5. Prohibit fishing, as a management action, tended to receive higher priority among Victoria residents (66%) than among Port Renfrew and Sooke residents (47%). PRIORITY FOR PROHIBIT FISHING BY LOCATION OF RESIDENCE 98

MARBLE RIVER PROVINCIAL PARK

MARBLE RIVER PROVINCIAL PARK MARBLE RIVER PROVINCIAL PARK PURPOSE STATEMENT AND ZONING PLAN March 2003 MARBLE RIVER PROVINCIAL PARK Purpose Statement and Zoning Plan Primary Role The primary role of Marble River Park is to protect

More information

SANTA-BOCA PROVINCIAL PARK

SANTA-BOCA PROVINCIAL PARK SANTA-BOCA PROVINCIAL PARK PURPOSE STATEMENT AND ZONING PLAN March 2003 SANTA-BOCA PROVINCIAL PARK Purpose Statement and Zoning Plan Primary Role The primary role of Santa-Boca Park is to provide marine-based

More information

VARGAS ISLAND PROVINCIAL PARK

VARGAS ISLAND PROVINCIAL PARK VARGAS ISLAND PROVINCIAL PARK PURPOSE STATEMENT AND ZONING PLAN February 2003 VARGAS ISLAND PROVINCIAL PARK Purpose Statement and Zoning Plan Primary Role The primary role of Vargas Island Park is to protect

More information

Appendix A BC Provincial Parks System Goals

Appendix A BC Provincial Parks System Goals Appendix A BC Provincial Parks System Goals The British Columbia Provincial Parks System has two mandates: To conserve significant and representative natural and cultural resources To provide a wide variety

More information

BROUGHTON ARCHIPELAGO PROVINCIAL PARK

BROUGHTON ARCHIPELAGO PROVINCIAL PARK BROUGHTON ARCHIPELAGO PROVINCIAL PARK PURPOSE STATEMENT AND ZONING PLAN March 2003 BROUGHTON ARCHIPELAGO PROVINCIAL PARK Purpose Statement and Zoning Plan Primary Role The primary role is to contribute

More information

Marchand Provincial Park. Management Plan

Marchand Provincial Park. Management Plan Marchand Provincial Park Management Plan 2 Marchand Provincial Park Table of Contents 1. Introduction... 3 2. Park History... 3 3. Park Attributes... 4 3.1 Natural... 4 3.2 Recreational... 4 3.3 Additional

More information

MAIN LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK

MAIN LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK MAIN LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK PURPOSE STATEMENT AND ZONING PLAN March 2003 MAIN LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK Purpose Statement and Zoning Plan Primary Role The primary role of Main Lake Park is to protect a biologically

More information

MANAGEMENT DIRECTION STATEMENT June, 1999

MANAGEMENT DIRECTION STATEMENT June, 1999 Thompson River District MANAGEMENT DIRECTION STATEMENT June, 1999 for Clearwater River Corridor (Addition to Wells Gray Park) Ministry of Environment Lands and Parks BC Parks Division ii Table of Contents

More information

Access: The rocky shoreline is only accessible via private property.

Access: The rocky shoreline is only accessible via private property. 10. Whale Cove Site description: Whale Cove is a small cove fringed by private homes and condominiums with diverse and relatively undisturbed rocky intertidal and subtidal habitat located approximately

More information

Yard Creek Provincial Park. Management Plan

Yard Creek Provincial Park. Management Plan Yard Creek Provincial Park Management Plan Draft January 2010 Yard Creek Provincial Park Management Plan Approved by: telàlsemkin/siyam/chief Scott Benton Bill Williams Squamish Executive Director ation

More information

ROBERTS CREEK PROVINCIAL PARK MASTER PLAN. November, 1981

ROBERTS CREEK PROVINCIAL PARK MASTER PLAN. November, 1981 Ministry of Lands, Parks and Housing Parks and Outdoor Recreation Division Park Operations Branch North Vancouver, B. C. ROBERTS CREEK PROVINCIAL PARK MASTER PLAN November, 1981 Mr. G. Trachuk Director

More information

MANAGEMENT DIRECTION STATEMENT June, 1999

MANAGEMENT DIRECTION STATEMENT June, 1999 Thompson River District MANAGEMENT DIRECTION STATEMENT June, 1999 for Roche Lake Provincial Park Ministry of Environment Lands and Parks BC Parks Division Table of Contents I. Introduction A. Setting

More information

MANAGEMENT DIRECTION STATEMENT March 2003

MANAGEMENT DIRECTION STATEMENT March 2003 Skeena Region MAAGEMET DIRECTIO STATEMET March 2003 for Meziadin Lake Provincial Park Ministry of Water, Land and Air Protection Environmental Stewardsh Division This page left blank on purpose ii Table

More information

ANAGEMENT P LAN. February, for Elk Lakes and Height of the Rockies Provincial Parks. Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks BC Parks Division

ANAGEMENT P LAN. February, for Elk Lakes and Height of the Rockies Provincial Parks. Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks BC Parks Division M ANAGEMENT P LAN February, 1999 for Elk Lakes and Height of the Rockies Provincial Parks Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks BC Parks Division Elk Lakes & Height of the Rockies Provincial Parks M

More information

SPECTACLE LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK PURPOSE STATEMENT AND ZONING PLAN

SPECTACLE LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK PURPOSE STATEMENT AND ZONING PLAN SPECTACLE LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK PURPOSE STATEMENT AND ZONING PLAN August 2003 1 SPECTACLE LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK Purpose Statement and Zoning Plan Primary Role The primary role of Spectacle Lake Park is to

More information

Outdoor Recreation Opportunities Management

Outdoor Recreation Opportunities Management Outdoor Recreation Opportunities Management Introduction A major role of a management plan is to provide direction regarding the types of recreation that are appropriate, and to outline the steps that

More information

MONTAGUE HARBOUR MARINE PROVINCIAL PARK

MONTAGUE HARBOUR MARINE PROVINCIAL PARK MONTAGUE HARBOUR MARINE PROVINCIAL PARK PURPOSE STATEMENT AND ZONING PLAN March 2003 1 MONTAGUE HARBOUR MARINE PROVINCIAL PARK Purpose Statement and Zoning Plan Primary Role The primary role of Montague

More information

Birch Point Provincial Park. Management Plan

Birch Point Provincial Park. Management Plan Birch Point Provincial Park Management Plan 2 Birch Point Provincial Park Table of Contents 1. Introduction... 3 2. Park History... 3 3. Park Attributes... 4 3.1 Natural... 4 3.2 Recreational... 4 4. Park

More information

MANAGEMENT DIRECTION STATEMENT

MANAGEMENT DIRECTION STATEMENT Skeena District MAAGEMET DIRECTIO STATEMET July, 2000 for Driftwood Canyon Provincial Park Ministry of Environment Lands and Parks BC Parks Division i Table of Contents Driftwood Canyon Park Approvals

More information

MANAGEMENT DIRECTION STATEMENT

MANAGEMENT DIRECTION STATEMENT Lower Mainland District MAAGEMET DIRECTIO STATEMET January 2001 for Liumchen Ecological Reserve Ministry of Environment Lands and Parks BC Parks Division Table of Contents Page Introduction... 1 Purpose

More information

ANAGEMENT. LAN November, 1996

ANAGEMENT. LAN November, 1996 M ANAGEMENT P LAN November, 1996 for Paul Lake Provincial Park Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks BC Parks Department Paul Lake Provincial Park M ANAGEMENT P LAN Prepared by BC Parks Kamloops Area

More information

PLUMPER COVE MARINE PARK MASTER PLAN

PLUMPER COVE MARINE PARK MASTER PLAN Lower Mainland Region Park Operations Branch Parks and Outdoor Recreation Division Ministry of Lands, Parks and Housing North Vancouver, B.C. PLUMPER COVE MARINE PARK MASTER PLAN DECEMBER, 1980 PLUMPER

More information

Clearwater Lake Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan

Clearwater Lake Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan Clearwater Lake Provincial Park Draft Management Plan Clearwater Lake Provincial Park Draft Management Plan Table of Contents 1. Introduction... 3 2. Park History... 4 3. Park Attributes... 4 3.1 Location/Access...4

More information

Sand Lakes Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan

Sand Lakes Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan Sand Lakes Provincial Park Draft Management Plan 2 Sand Lakes Provincial Park Table of Contents 1. Introduction... 3 2. Background... 3 3. Park Purpose... 5 4. Park Management Guidelines... 6 Appendix...

More information

Pembina Valley Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan

Pembina Valley Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan Pembina Valley Provincial Park Draft Management Plan 2 Pembina Valley Provincial Park Table of Contents 1. Introduction... 3 2. Park History... 3 3. Park Attributes... 3 3.1 Natural... 3 3.2 Recreational...

More information

Little Limestone Lake Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan

Little Limestone Lake Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan Little Limestone Lake Provincial Park Draft Management Plan Little Limestone Lake Provincial Park Draft Management Plan Table of Contents 1. Introduction... 3 2. Background... 3 3. Planning context...

More information

Ouimet Canyon Provincial Nature Reserve. Management Plan

Ouimet Canyon Provincial Nature Reserve. Management Plan Ouimet Canyon Provincial Nature Reserve Management Plan NOTE: This document has been scanned and formatted, and therefore is slightly different from the original version. -March 2002 Additional copies

More information

PROUDLY BRINGING YOU CANADA AT ITS BEST. Management Planning Program NEWSLETTER #1 OCTOBER, 2000

PROUDLY BRINGING YOU CANADA AT ITS BEST. Management Planning Program NEWSLETTER #1 OCTOBER, 2000 PROUDLY BRINGING YOU CANADA AT ITS BEST VUNTUT NATIONAL PARK Management Planning Program NEWSLETTER #1 OCTOBER, 2000 INTRODUCTION This newsletter launches the development of the first management plan for

More information

Watchorn Provincial Park. Management Plan

Watchorn Provincial Park. Management Plan Watchorn Provincial Park Management Plan 2 Watchorn Provincial Park Table of Contents 1. Introduction... 3 2. Park History... 3 3. Park Attributes... 3 3.1 Natural... 4 3.2 Recreational... 4 3.3 Additional

More information

5.0 OUTDOOR RECREATION OPPORTUNITIES AND MANAGEMENT

5.0 OUTDOOR RECREATION OPPORTUNITIES AND MANAGEMENT 5.0 OUTDOOR RECREATION OPPORTUNITIES AND MANAGEMENT 5.1 Introduction This section describes the range of recreational activities that currently take place in Marble Range and Edge Hills Parks, as well

More information

ANAGEMENT. LAN November, 1996

ANAGEMENT. LAN November, 1996 M ANAGEMENT P LAN November, 1996 for Coldwater River Provincial Park Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks BC Parks Department Coldwater River Provincial Park M ANAGEMENT P LAN Prepared by BC Parks

More information

Proposed National Marine Conservation Area Reserve Southern Strait of Georgia PROJECT UPDATE Spring 2012

Proposed National Marine Conservation Area Reserve Southern Strait of Georgia PROJECT UPDATE Spring 2012 Proposed National Marine Conservation Area Reserve Southern Strait of Georgia PROJECT UPDATE Spring 2012 National marine conservation areas (NMCAs) are established to protect, conserve and present examples

More information

RE: Access Fund Comments on Yosemite National Park Wilderness Stewardship Plan, Preliminary Ideas and Concepts

RE: Access Fund Comments on Yosemite National Park Wilderness Stewardship Plan, Preliminary Ideas and Concepts September 30, 2016 Superintendent Yosemite National Park Attn: Wilderness Stewardship Plan P.O. Box 577 Yosemite, CA 95389 RE: Access Fund Comments on Yosemite National Park Wilderness Stewardship Plan,

More information

Pinawa Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan

Pinawa Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan Pinawa Provincial Park Draft Management Plan Pinawa Provincial Park Draft Management Plan Table of Contents 1. Introduction... 3 2. Park History... 3 3. Park Attributes... 4 3.1 Natural... 4 3.2 Recreational...

More information

ADDENDA. 1. It does not conform to the Master Plan format in the following areas: Statement of Purpose - clarification of parks purpose in system.

ADDENDA. 1. It does not conform to the Master Plan format in the following areas: Statement of Purpose - clarification of parks purpose in system. File: 2-7-2-79-27 ADDENDA Plan for Saltery Bay Park This plan has been reviewed and is approved with the following comments and conditions: 1. It does not conform to the Master Plan format in the following

More information

Rule Governing the Designation and Establishment of All-Terrain Vehicle Use Trails on State Land

Rule Governing the Designation and Establishment of All-Terrain Vehicle Use Trails on State Land Rule Governing the Designation and Establishment of All-Terrain Vehicle Use Trails on State Land 1.0 Authority 1.1 This rule is promulgated pursuant to 23 V.S.A. 3506. Section 3506 (b)(4) states that an

More information

Bayview Escarpment. Interim Management Statement

Bayview Escarpment. Interim Management Statement Bayview Escarpment Interim Management Statement Bayview Escarpment Provincial Nature Reserve Interim Management Statement January 15, 1995 REGIONAL DIRECTOR'S APPROVAL STATEMENT This Interim Management

More information

As outlined in the Tatshenshini-Alsek Park Management Agreement, park management will:

As outlined in the Tatshenshini-Alsek Park Management Agreement, park management will: Management Strategy General Strategy The priority management focus for the park is to ensure that its internationally significant natural, cultural heritage and recreational values are protected and that

More information

Numaykoos Lake Provincial Park. Management Plan

Numaykoos Lake Provincial Park. Management Plan Numaykoos Lake Provincial Park Management Plan 2 Numaykoos Lake Provincial Park Table of Contents 1. Introduction... 3 2. Background... 3 3. Park Purpose... 5 4. Park Management Guidelines... 6 Appendix...

More information

Norris Lake Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan

Norris Lake Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan Norris Lake Provincial Park Draft Management Plan 2 Norris Lake Provincial Park Table of Contents 1. Introduction... 3 2. Park History... 3 3. Park Attributes... 4 3.1 Natural... 4 3.2 Recreational...

More information

Land Management Summary

Land Management Summary photo credit: ANGAIR Anglesea Heath Land Management Summary The Anglesea Heath (6,501 ha) was incorporated into the Great Otway National Park in January 2018. This provides an opportunity to consider the

More information

Flow Stand Up Paddle Board Parkway Plan Analysis

Flow Stand Up Paddle Board Parkway Plan Analysis Regional Parks Department Jeffrey R. Leatherman, Director County of Sacramento Divisions Administration Golf Leisure Services Maintenance Rangers Therapeutic Recreation Services Flow Stand Up Paddle Board

More information

Wallace Lake Provincial Park. Management Plan

Wallace Lake Provincial Park. Management Plan Wallace Lake Provincial Park Management Plan 2 Wallace Lake Provincial Park Table of Contents 1. Introduction... 3 2. Park History... 3 3. Park Attributes... 4 3.1 Natural... 4 3.2 Recreational... 4 4.

More information

BLANKET CREEK PROVINCIAL PARK

BLANKET CREEK PROVINCIAL PARK BLANKET CREEK PROVINCIAL PARK PURPOSE STATEMENT AND ZONING PLAN February 2003 BLANKET CREEK PROVINCIAL PARK Purpose Statement and Zoning Plan Primary Role The primary role of Blanket Creek Park is to maintain

More information

EPPER PASSAGE PROVINCIAL PARK PURPOSE STATEMENT AND ZONING PLAN

EPPER PASSAGE PROVINCIAL PARK PURPOSE STATEMENT AND ZONING PLAN EPPER PASSAGE PROVINCIAL PARK PURPOSE STATEMENT AND ZONING PLAN August 2003 1 EPPER PASSAGE PROVINCIAL PARK Purpose Statement and Zoning Plan Primary Role The primary role of Epper Passage Park is to protect

More information

FINAL TESTIMONY 1 COMMITTEE ON RESOURCES UNITED STATES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. July 13, 2005 CONCERNING. Motorized Recreational Use of Federal Lands

FINAL TESTIMONY 1 COMMITTEE ON RESOURCES UNITED STATES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. July 13, 2005 CONCERNING. Motorized Recreational Use of Federal Lands FINAL TESTIMONY 1 STATEMENT OF DALE BOSWORTH CHIEF Of the FOREST SERVICE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Before the SUBCOMMITTEE ON FORESTS AND FOREST HEALTH And the SUBCOMMITTEE ON NATIONAL PARKS,

More information

OCTOPUS ISLANDS PROVINCIAL PARK

OCTOPUS ISLANDS PROVINCIAL PARK OCTOPUS ISLANDS PROVINCIAL PARK PURPOSE STATEMENT AND ZONING PLAN February 2003 OCTOPUS ISLANDS PROVINCIAL PARK Purpose Statement and Zoning Plan Primary Role The primary role of Octopus Islands Park is

More information

Michipicoten Island Regional Plan

Michipicoten Island Regional Plan Michipicoten Island Regional Plan This is one of twenty Regional Plans that support implementation of the Lake Superior Biodiversity Conservation Strategy (Strategy). The Strategy, prepared and overseen

More information

Sasagiu Rapids Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan

Sasagiu Rapids Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan Sasagiu Rapids Provincial Park Draft Management Plan 2 Sasagiu Rapids Provincial Park Table of Contents 1. Introduction... 3 2. Background and Park Attributes... 3 2.1 Park History.... 3 2.2 Natural Features...

More information

Continental Divide National Scenic Trail Legislative History and Planning Guidance

Continental Divide National Scenic Trail Legislative History and Planning Guidance Continental Divide National Scenic Trail Legislative History and Planning Guidance Legislation, Policy, and Direction Regarding National Scenic Trails The National Trails System Act, P.L. 90-543, was passed

More information

Whitemouth Falls Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan

Whitemouth Falls Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan Whitemouth Falls Provincial Park Draft Management Plan Whitemouth Falls Provincial Park Draft Management Plan Table of Contents 1. Introduction... 3 2. Park History... 3 3. Park Attributes... 4 3.1 Natural...

More information

MANAGEMENT DIRECTION STATEMENT June, 1999

MANAGEMENT DIRECTION STATEMENT June, 1999 Garibaldi/Sunshine Coast District MAAGEMET DIRECTIO STATEMET June, 1999 for Homathko Estuary Provincial Park Ministry of Environment Lands and Parks BC Parks Division TABLE OF COTETS Introduction...1

More information

Conservation Area Management Statement

Conservation Area Management Statement Conservation Area Management Statement Miller Creek Wildlife Area Resolution #: Approval: Issue Date: Date of Last Revision: Table of Contents 1. Purpose....... 1 2. Property Description...... 1 2.1. Legal

More information

2.0 PARK VISION AND ROLES

2.0 PARK VISION AND ROLES 2.0 PARK VISION AND ROLES 2.1 Significance in the Protected Area System Marble Range and Edge Hills provincial parks protect 6.8% of the Pavillion Ranges Ecosection, which is located in the Southern Interior

More information

Steps in the Management Planning Process

Steps in the Management Planning Process Steps in the Management Planning Process Developing a management plan for Kalamalka Lake Park will follow a multi-stage process. The planning process for this park is currently in the Draft Management

More information

Mackinnon Esker Ecological Reserve Draft - Management Plan

Mackinnon Esker Ecological Reserve Draft - Management Plan Mackinnon Esker Ecological Reserve Draft - Management Plan May 2011 Photo Credit: This document replaces the direction provided in the Carp Lake Provincial Park and Protected Area and Mackinnon Esker Ecological

More information

Finn Creek Park. Management Direction Statement Amendment

Finn Creek Park. Management Direction Statement Amendment Finn Creek Park Management Direction Statement Amendment November 2013 Management Direction Statement Amendment Approved by: Jeff Leahy Regional Director, Thompson Cariboo BC Parks November 12, 2013 Date

More information

Beaver Creek Provincial Park. Management Plan

Beaver Creek Provincial Park. Management Plan Beaver Creek Provincial Park Management Plan 2 Beaver Creek Provincial Park Table of Contents 1. Introduction... 3 2. Park History... 3 3. Park Attributes... 4 3.1 Natural... 4 3.2 Recreational... 4 4.

More information

Criddle/Vane Homestead Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan

Criddle/Vane Homestead Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan Criddle/Vane Homestead Provincial Park Draft Management Plan 2 Criddle/Vane Homestead Provincial Park Table of Contents 1. Introduction... 3 2. Park History.... 3 3. Park Attributes.... 3 3.1 Natural....

More information

APPENDIX A TERMS OF DESIGNATION

APPENDIX A TERMS OF DESIGNATION 247 248 ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT On May 11, 1994 the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) published the final Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary Regulations (59 FR 24586). This official

More information

Wallace Lake Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan

Wallace Lake Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan Wallace Lake Provincial Park Draft Management Plan Wallace Lake Provincial Park Draft Management Plan Table of Contents 1. Introduction... 3 2. Park History... 3 3. Park Attributes... 4 3.1 Natural...

More information

Site description: 2.7 miles of intertidal habitat located about 2 miles north of Depoe Bay in Lincoln County, Oregon (Figure 16).

Site description: 2.7 miles of intertidal habitat located about 2 miles north of Depoe Bay in Lincoln County, Oregon (Figure 16). 8 Boiler Bay Site description: 27 miles of intertidal habitat located about 2 miles north of Depoe Bay in Lincoln County, Oregon (Figure 16) Designation: Boiler Bay was a research reserve before TSP publication,

More information

Criddle/Vane Homestead Provincial Park. Management Plan

Criddle/Vane Homestead Provincial Park. Management Plan Criddle/Vane Homestead Provincial Park Management Plan 2 Criddle/Vane Homestead Provincial Park Table of Contents 1. Introduction... 3 2. Park History.... 3 3. Park Attributes.... 4 3.1 Natural.... 4 3.2

More information

INFORMATION NOTICE 15-2 Limited & Excluded Lands

INFORMATION NOTICE 15-2 Limited & Excluded Lands INFORMATION NOTICE 15-2 Limited & Excluded Lands Schedule 1 (Land Description) of onshore petroleum Agreements issued by the Department of Energy details the total hectares calculated. Total hectares are

More information

STONE MOUNTAIN PROVINCIAL PARK Purpose Statement and Zoning Plan

STONE MOUNTAIN PROVINCIAL PARK Purpose Statement and Zoning Plan 1 STONE MOUNTAIN PROVINCIAL PARK Purpose Statement and Zoning Plan Stone Mountain Provincial Park is situated 140 km west of Fort Nelson at Kilometre 595 of the Alaska Highway. The 25 690 ha park is located

More information

Rogue River Access and Management Plan Draft Alternatives

Rogue River Access and Management Plan Draft Alternatives Rogue River Access and Management Plan Draft Alternatives The Rogue River Access and Management Plan was initiated in December, 2011 and is being led by Jackson County Parks (JCP) and Oregon Department

More information

Trappist Monastery Provincial Park. Management Plan

Trappist Monastery Provincial Park. Management Plan Trappist Monastery Provincial Park Management Plan 2 Trappist Monastery Provincial Park Table of Contents 1. Introduction... 3 2. Park History... 3 3. Park Attributes... 4 3.1 Natural... 4 3.2 Recreational...

More information

KANANASKIS COUNTRY PROVINCIAL RECREATION AREAS MANAGEMENT PLAN DRAFT TERMS OF REFERENCE - November 20, 2007

KANANASKIS COUNTRY PROVINCIAL RECREATION AREAS MANAGEMENT PLAN DRAFT TERMS OF REFERENCE - November 20, 2007 KANANASKIS COUNTRY PROVINCIAL RECREATION AREAS MANAGEMENT PLAN DRAFT TERMS OF REFERENCE - November 20, 2007 BACKGROUND There are 42 Provincial Recreation Areas (PRAs) within Kananaskis Country located

More information

Bon Portage Island Conservation Campaign

Bon Portage Island Conservation Campaign Bon Portage Island Conservation Campaign Protecting a Coastal Treasure Final Report to Nova Scotia Habitat Conservation Fund September 2012 Protection of Bon Portage Island Over the course of this two-year

More information

A GUIDE TO MANITOBA PROTECTED AREAS & LANDS PROTECTION

A GUIDE TO MANITOBA PROTECTED AREAS & LANDS PROTECTION A GUIDE TO MANITOBA PROTECTED AREAS & LANDS PROTECTION Manitoba Wildands December 2008 Discussions about the establishment of protected lands need to be clear about the definition of protection. We will

More information

BELLHOUSE PROVINCIAL PARK

BELLHOUSE PROVINCIAL PARK BELLHOUSE PROVINCIAL PARK PURPOSE STATEMENT AND ZONING PLAN March 2003 1 BELLHOUSE PROVINCIAL PARK Purpose Statement and Zoning Plan Primary Role The primary role of Bellhouse Provincial Park is to protect

More information

MANAGEMENT DIRECTION STATEMENT March 2003

MANAGEMENT DIRECTION STATEMENT March 2003 Skeena Region MAAGEMET DIRECTIO STATEMET March 2003 for Lowe Inlet Marine Provincial Park Ministry of Water, Land and Air Protection Environmental Stewardshi Division This page left blank on purpose

More information

FINGER-TATUK PROVINCIAL PARK

FINGER-TATUK PROVINCIAL PARK FINGER-TATUK PROVINCIAL PARK PURPOSE STATEMENT AND ZONING PLAN March 2003 FINGER-TATUK PROVINCIAL PARK Purpose Statement and Zoning Plan Finger-Tatuk Provincial Park is 17,151 ha in size. It includes the

More information

Davis Lake Provincial Park ANAGEMENT P LAN. (Draft Report Under Review) Prepared by Regional Operations Lower Mainland North Vancouver, BC

Davis Lake Provincial Park ANAGEMENT P LAN. (Draft Report Under Review) Prepared by Regional Operations Lower Mainland North Vancouver, BC Davis Lake Provincial Park M ANAGEMENT P LAN (Draft Report Under Review) Prepared by Regional Operations Lower Mainland North Vancouver, BC M ANAGEMENT P LAN April 2002 for Davis Lake Provincial Park Ministry

More information

Greening Project Status Report: Grand Canyon National Park

Greening Project Status Report: Grand Canyon National Park Greening Project Status Report: Grand Canyon National Park Prepared for the Federal Energy Management Program U.S. Department of Energy February 2001 iii Contents Page 1. Introduction... 1 2. Context of

More information

Trappist Monastery Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan

Trappist Monastery Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan Trappist Monastery Provincial Park Draft Management Plan 2 Trappist Monastery Provincial Park Table of Contents 1. Introduction... 3 2. Park History... 3 3. Park Attributes... 3 3.1 Natural... 3 3.2 Recreational...

More information

Decision Memo Broken Wheel Ranch Equestrian Outfitter Special-Use Permit Proposed Action

Decision Memo Broken Wheel Ranch Equestrian Outfitter Special-Use Permit Proposed Action Decision Memo Broken Wheel Ranch Equestrian Outfitter Special-Use Permit USDA Forest Service Mississippi Bluffs Ranger District, Shawnee National Forest Jackson and Union Counties, Illinois Proposed Action

More information

33. Coiba National Park and its Special Zone of Marine Protection (Panama) N 1138 rev)

33. Coiba National Park and its Special Zone of Marine Protection (Panama) N 1138 rev) World Heritage status of the area and the Outstanding Universal Value of the Monarch butterfly migration phenomenon, c) Explore options for the development of non-butterfly related tourism activities;

More information

PROPOSAL FOR RECLASSIFICATION, BOUNDARY AMENDMENT AND DRAFT CONCEPT PLAN FOR SASKATOON MOUNTAIN NATURAL AREA. Frequently Asked Questions

PROPOSAL FOR RECLASSIFICATION, BOUNDARY AMENDMENT AND DRAFT CONCEPT PLAN FOR SASKATOON MOUNTAIN NATURAL AREA. Frequently Asked Questions PROPOSAL FOR RECLASSIFICATION, BOUNDARY AMENDMENT AND DRAFT CONCEPT PLAN FOR SASKATOON MOUNTAIN NATURAL AREA 1. Why is this proposal being put forward? Frequently Asked Questions For many years, Alberta

More information

Pillar Park. Management Plan

Pillar Park. Management Plan Pillar Park Management Plan January 2014 Pillar Park Management Plan Approved by: Jeff Leahy Regional Director Thompson Cariboo Region BC Parks January 9, 2014 Date Brian Bawtinheimer Executive Director

More information

MONTEREY REGIONAL AIRPORT MASTER PLAN TOPICAL QUESTIONS FROM THE PLANNING ADVISORY COMMITTEE AND TOPICAL RESPONSES

MONTEREY REGIONAL AIRPORT MASTER PLAN TOPICAL QUESTIONS FROM THE PLANNING ADVISORY COMMITTEE AND TOPICAL RESPONSES MONTEREY REGIONAL AIRPORT MASTER PLAN TOPICAL QUESTIONS FROM THE PLANNING ADVISORY COMMITTEE AND TOPICAL RESPONSES Recurring topics emerged in some of the comments and questions raised by members of the

More information

Rocky Lake Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan

Rocky Lake Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan Rocky Lake Provincial Park Draft Management Plan Rocky Lake Provincial Park Draft Management Plan Table of Contents 1. Introduction... 3 2. Park History... 3 3. Park Attributes... 4 3.1 Location/Access...4

More information

Port Bruce. Interim Management Statement

Port Bruce. Interim Management Statement Port Bruce Interim Management Statement Port Bruce Interim Management Statement August 3, 1999 This Port Bruce Provincial Park Interim Management Statement provides direction for the custodial management

More information

ANAGEMENT P LAN. July for Chilliwack Lake Park & Chilliwack River Ecological Reserve. Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks BC Parks Division

ANAGEMENT P LAN. July for Chilliwack Lake Park & Chilliwack River Ecological Reserve. Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks BC Parks Division M ANAGEMENT P LAN July 2000 for Chilliwack Lake Park & Chilliwack River Ecological Reserve Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks BC Parks Division Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park & Chilliwack River

More information

Draft Concept Plan. for the. Proposed Saskatoon Mountain Provincial Recreation Area

Draft Concept Plan. for the. Proposed Saskatoon Mountain Provincial Recreation Area Draft Concept Plan for the Proposed Saskatoon Mountain Provincial Recreation Area April 2014 Table of Contents INTRODUCTION... PROPOSAL SUMMARY... 1.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED SASKATOON MOUNTAIN PROVINCIAL

More information

APPENDIX. Alberta Land Stewardship Act AMENDMENTS TO THE SOUTH SASKATCHEWAN REGIONAL PLAN

APPENDIX. Alberta Land Stewardship Act AMENDMENTS TO THE SOUTH SASKATCHEWAN REGIONAL PLAN APPENDIX Alberta Land Stewardship Act AMENDMENTS TO THE SOUTH SASKATCHEWAN REGIONAL PLAN 1 All references to Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development, Environment and Sustainable Resource

More information

MANAGEMENT DIRECTION STATEMENT October, 1999

MANAGEMENT DIRECTION STATEMENT October, 1999 Thompson River District MAAGEMET DIRECTIO STATEMET October, 1999 for Chu Chua Cottonwood Provincial Park Ministry of Environment Lands and Parks BC Parks Division Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks

More information

Victor Lake Park. Management Plan

Victor Lake Park. Management Plan Victor Lake Park Management Plan November 2012 Victor Lake Park Management Plan Approved by: Jeff Leahy, Regional Director Thompson Cariboo Region BC Parks March 28, 2012 Date Brian Bawtinheimer, Executive

More information

Connie Rudd Superintendent, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Connie Rudd Superintendent, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Curecanti National Recreation Area Information Brochure #1 Wilderness and Backcountry Management Plan

More information

Portage Spillway Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan

Portage Spillway Provincial Park. Draft Management Plan Portage Spillway Provincial Park Draft Management Plan 2 Portage Spillway Provincial Park Table of Contents 1. Introduction... 3 2. Park History... 3 3. Park Attributes... 4 3.1 Natural... 4 3.2 Recreational...

More information

LATIN AMERICA / CARIBBEAN COIBA NATIONAL PARK PANAMA

LATIN AMERICA / CARIBBEAN COIBA NATIONAL PARK PANAMA LATIN AMERICA / CARIBBEAN COIBA NATIONAL PARK PANAMA WORLD HERITAGE NOMINATION IUCN TECHNICAL EVALUATION COIBA NATIONAL PARK (PANAMA) ID Nº 1138 Bis Background note: Coiba National Park was nominated for

More information

Nakina Moraine Provincial Park. Interim Management Statement. Ontario. Ministry of Natural Resources

Nakina Moraine Provincial Park. Interim Management Statement. Ontario. Ministry of Natural Resources Nakina Moraine Provincial Park Interim Management Statement Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources 1999, Queen's Printer for Ontario Printed in Ontario, Canada Additional copies of this publication can

More information

NECHAKO CANYON PROTECTED AREA

NECHAKO CANYON PROTECTED AREA NECHAKO CANYON PROTECTED AREA PURPOSE STATEMENT AND ZONING PLAN March 2003 1 Nechako Canyon Protected Area Purpose Statement and Zoning Plan The Nechako Canyon Protected Area (1,246 hectares) is located

More information

Hudson Bay Lowlands Proposed Protected Areas

Hudson Bay Lowlands Proposed Protected Areas Hudson Bay Lowlands Proposed Protected Areas Hudson Bay Lowlands Proposed Protected Areas The Protected Areas Initiative has identified portions of the Hudson Bay Lowlands region that have significant

More information

CARMANAH WALBRAN PROVINCIAL PARK

CARMANAH WALBRAN PROVINCIAL PARK CARMANAH WALBRAN PROVINCIAL PARK PURPOSE STATEMENT AND ZONING PLAN September 2003 1 CARMANAH WALBRAN PROVINCIAL PARK Purpose Statement and Zoning Plan Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park is an expansion of

More information

MANAGEMENT DIRECTION STATEMENT March 2003

MANAGEMENT DIRECTION STATEMENT March 2003 Skeena Region MAAGEMET DIRECTIO STATEMET March 2003 for Great Glacier Provincial Park Ministry of Water, Land an Air Protection Environmental Stewardship Division ii This management direction statement

More information

Cascade River State Park Management Plan Amendment

Cascade River State Park Management Plan Amendment This document is made available electronically by the Minnesota Legislative Reference Library as part of an ongoing digital archiving project. http://www.leg.state.mn.us/lrl/lrl.asp Cascade River State

More information

Adventure Tourism Management Plan. Adventure Tourism Intensive Use Sites MANAGEMENT PLAN

Adventure Tourism Management Plan. Adventure Tourism Intensive Use Sites MANAGEMENT PLAN Adventure Tourism Intensive Use Sites MANAGEMENT PLAN ACCEPTED BY: FILES #: 1413906 1413905 LICENSES #: 112857 112905 DATE: April 25, 2018 SIGNED on behalf of HER MAJESTRY THE QUEEN IN THE RIGHT OF THE

More information

Clam Harbour Provincial Park

Clam Harbour Provincial Park Clam Harbour Provincial Park Public Engagement Session Thursday, September 14 th, 2017 5:30pm 7:30pm Webbers Store 11470 Nova Scotia Trunk 7 Lake Charlotte, NS Agenda Overview of the Provincial Parks System

More information

D IRECTION S TATEMENT

D IRECTION S TATEMENT Vancouver Island Region M ANAGEMENT D IRECTION S TATEMENT September 2003 for Lower Nimpkish Provincial Park Ministry of Water, Land and Air Protection Environmental Stewardship Lower Nimpkish Provincial

More information